Brad Weber to lead the Chiefs with Brodie Retallick sidelined

The Cheifs have been dealt futher injury blows ahead of their clash with the Lions, who are bottom of the South African conference.

Injured fullback Damian McKenzie will miss the remainder of the season with the backline utility sidelined for the season by knee-ligament damage, he has been joined in the stands by giant lock Brodie Retallick and hooker Nathan Harris this week.

Retallick has been ruled out with a hand injury, while Harris is taking a mandated rest.

That leaves the Waikato-based side understrength for a dangerous match-up against the Lions who have feature in three consecutive Super Rugby finals.

Halfback Brad Weber will take over the captaincy in the absence of co-captains Brodie Retallick and Sam Cane, with Cane still recovering from his neck fracture.

Bay of Plenty hooker Liam Polwart will make his first appearance of the Super Rugby season starting in replace of All Blacks hooker Nathan Harris. Polwart will combine with Angus Ta’avao and Nepo Laulala. Loosehead prop Atu Moli returns from his elbow injury and is joined by Samisoni Taukei’aho and Sosefo Kautai who will provide front row cover. A new locking combination of Tyler Ardron and Mitchell Brown.

Weber will captain the side in his 65th appearance for the Chiefs. Weber has previously captained both Hawke’s Bay and Waikato during his time with the respective provinces. 

Excited for the opportunity, Weber said: “It is a huge honour to be named as captain for this Friday. I am excited for the opportunity and am thankful to have a great bunch of guys around me which will make my job easier. "

Chiefs: 

 Via: Chiefs