Another set of juicy NZ derbies in SR Pacific, Round3

Round 3 of Super Rugby Pacific brings with it an array of juicy derbies in the land of the long, white cloud. 

Blues vs Chiefs: 

After enjoying a bye last weekend, the Chiefs travel to Eden Park for what should be a good scrap with the Blues. The latter had their hearts shattered at the death by the Hurricanes’ courage and enterprise in Round 2: 

The Chiefs opened their campaign with a 10-point victory over the Highlanders: 

The most notable feature in the Blues line-up is the return of the robust Dalton Papali’i. The only other change to the side sees Stephen Perofeta don the number 15 jersey. 

“The team is looking forward to returning home to their families, although we have some strict protocols in place to keep as safe as possible from the covid virus,” said head coach Leon MacDonald. 

“For over 70 minutes we were pleased with the rugby that the boys played. On the plus side, it was our first game and we will be better for that run, although the boys clearly understand that the game is played over 80 minutes. 

“There were a lot of things we did well, but we will need to keep improving every game, especially with the challenge the Chiefs present with a strong pack and talent across the field.” 

On the Chiefs’ side, it is a significant occasion for scrumhalf Brad Weber who will turn out for his 100th game in his team’s colours. 

“Brad’s contribution to the Gallagher Chiefs throughout his career has been immense, and he thoroughly deserves to stand alongside an exclusive group of Chiefs Centurions when he brings up his 100th this Saturday,” said Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan.  

“He is an outstanding team man, consummate professional and clearly a great player. We look forward to sharing this auspicious milestone with Brad, alongside his partner, friends and family. 

 “The Blues were very impressive for the majority of their game against the Hurricanes. They physically imposed themselves on the game both sides of the ball, looked organised, hungry and dangerous across the park. They would have understandably been hurt by the loss and we expect a sharp response from them this weekend, particularly home at Eden Park. We also know this fixture is a highlight on the calendar for our loyal supporters given our long history as rivals, so as always, we are focused on delivering a performance our Chiefs whānau will be proud of.” 

Hurricanes vs Highlanders: 

In the second of the two derbies, the Canes host the Highlanders at Sky Stadium. Tony Brown’s men, as stated above, fell to the Chiefs in Round 1 and then to the Crusaders last week and are thus on the hunt for the first victory of their campaign. 

The Canes opened their campaign with a loss to the Crusaders before, in almost jaw-dropping fashion, finishing with a flourish to snatch victory against the Blues in Round 2. 

Canes boss Tom Holland has picked a similar squad as last week and will be keeping an eye on his front row charges where Siua Maile could be handed his debut off the bench. 

“Siua has come in through the preseason and worked hard,” Holland said. “He had a good battle with Jacob Devery to see who got the spot for the first few weeks on the bench behind Asafo. Jacob’s done well, but due to his concussion, Siua gets his chance. 

“He's trained really well and we're confident he's going to do a good job. We look forward to him becoming a Hurricane.” 

In the second row, Caleb Delaney will debut. 

 “Caleb has come right through the Academy system with Wellington and trained with us, so the boys know him well. He's really matured in the last little bit. 

“He's ready to go. He's training well, and I know he's busting to take his opportunity, so it's good to have this energy coming in.” 

In the back-row, Du’Plessis Kirifi returns to the fold with Reed Prinsep and Ardie Savea while Devan Flanders and Brayden Lose take spots on the bench. 

After a great performance off the bench last week, Ruben Love replaces Jackson Garden-Bachop in the flyhalf channel. 

In the midfield, Billy Proctor replaces Julain Savea at 12, with the latter shifting to the right wing. 

“It’s great to know that Jules can do both jobs for us. He can do a really good job for us in the midfield, but this week moves back to his favoured wing spot. He was instrumental in what happened in that last quarter of an hour from the win last week,” said Holland. 

The most significant change to the Highlanders comes at scrumhalf where Folau Fakatava will don the number 9 jersey while Aaron Smith rotates to the bench. 

In addition to this, it will be a big night for Liam Coombes-Fabling who debuts on the left wing. 

“This is a good opportunity for Fakatava while we manage Nuggie’s load and we’re looking forward to seeing how he goes,” said head coach Tony Brown.  

“We know we’re going to benefit from Nug’s leadership, speed, and energy when he comes on.  

“Liam has earned his opportunity with three good weeks of training; he has a high work rate and provides x-factor on the edge.”