Wellington name side to play Canterbury

August 29, 2024
1316
Ultimate Rugby

The Mills Albert Wellington Lions have proved themselves a force to be reckoned with as they head into round four with three back-to-back wins.

“Every week we want to get better,” remarks Wellington Lions Head Coach Alando Soakai, “We have a certain standard on how we perform and believe there is plenty of room for growth. We are excited about the next challenge and travelling south.”

Sunday’s clash against Canterbury sees the two oldest provincial unions in the country going head-to-head.

Soakai’s side has been given a shakeup following last week’s victory, with Captain Du’Plessis Kirifi ruled out with injury.

Front rowers, Leni Apisai and Siale Lauaki move to the starting lineup, with Penieli Poasa and PJ Sheck looking to provide impact from the bench. Sione Halalilo comes into the fold to replace Kirifi.

Callum Harkin moves to first-five, with Jackson Garden-Bachop coming in fresh off the bench. Peter Umaga-Jensen returns to the starting XV and steps up to Captain the side in Kirifi’s absence.

After a stellar performance last week, Julian Savea shifts over to the wing, with Tjay Clarke moving to fullback.

The Mills Albert Wellington Lions take on Canterbury in Round 4 of the Bunnings Warehouse NPC this Sunday, 2.05pm at Rangiora Oval Showground.

Wellington Lions Team to take on Canterbury: