Chiefs Manawa team named for pre-season match

The Chiefs Manawa have named a formidable team for their pre-season hit out against the Blues.

An extended squad of 26 will take the field, including five rookies who will be looking to showcase their skills as they vie for selection once Sky Super Rugby Aupiki kicks off next Saturday.

However, the invaluable experience of the 14 Black Ferns named will provide ample support for the newcomers.

The pre-season clash will kick off at 4.05pm at FMG Stadium Waikato ahead of the Gallagher Chiefs v Crusaders season opener. Tickets are available from chiefs.flicket.co.nz.

Chiefs Manawa team to face the Blues:
Krystal Murray
Te Urupounamu McGarvey
Luka Connor
Vici-Rose Green
Claudia Hobbs*
Chelsea Bremner
Charmaine Smith
Mia Anderson
Kennedy Simon
Ashlee Gaby-Sutherland*
Seina Saito*
Ariana Bayler
Chelsea Semple
Merania Paraone
Grace Steinmetz
Azalleyah Maaka
Mererangi Paul
Payton Takimoana*
Kate Henwood
Tanya Kalounivale
Grace Kukutai*
Victoria Edmonds
Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu
Ruby Tui
Renee Holmes

*denotes a rookie