Super Rugby Preview: Chiefs

The always impressive Chiefs will be a force to reckon with in Super Rugby 2017, they finished 3^rd in the New Zealand conference last year and will be looking to make a strong start in 2017.

Despite the departures of hooker Rhys Marshall and utility back Andrew Horrell, the team will be confident in the depth of their squad.

Head Coach Dave Rennie will be looking to get the best out of departing fly-half Aaron Cruden this season and hopes that he will link up with recently deputised All Black, Anton Lienert-Brown.

The return of All Black Liam Messam will boost the pack, while Tim Nanai Williams arrival will bring international experience and quality to an already powerful backline.

Dave Rennie’s side kick-off their campaign against The Highlanders in Dunedin, on the 24^th of February.

Head Coach: Dave Rennie

Notable departures: Rhys Marshall (Munster, Ireland), Andrew Horrell (Red Sparks, Japan), Aaron Cruden (Montpellier, France end of Super Rugby 2017)

Notable additions: Tim Nanai-Williams (Ricoh Black Rams, Japan), Liam Messam (Brave Lupus, Japan)

Captain: Sam Cane

Forward to watch: Dominic Bird

Back to watch: Damian McKenzie

Rising Star: Mitch Karpik