ITM Cup: Schuler thrilled to have Cane back

Magpies winger Zac Guildford, left, and Steamers winger Kimami Sitauti battle for possession during the Battle of the Bays last Sunday. Photo / Andrew Warner

All Blacks flanker Sam Cane makes an unexpected return to the Steamers against Auckland tomorrow in a crucial round three ITM Cup clash at Eden Park.

Cane has been released by the All Blacks selectors after not playing since Richie McCaw returned to captain the All Blacks. He will form a potent loose forward trio for the Steamers with No8 Carl Axtens and Queensland Reds flyer Beau Robinson.

Head coach Kevin Schuler says they were not expecting Cane to play so it is a real bonus to have him in the team tomorrow. "It is great to get him back in the fold even if it's only for a short time," Schuler said.

"Sam has been working hard on getting up to speed with our lineout calls and the boys are excited about playing alongside an All Black."

The Steamers will field a potent attacking back three at Eden Park, where they have not won since taking the Ranfurly Shield off Auckland in 2004.

Former Auckland player Dave Thomas starts at fullback with Melbourne Rebels' Kimami Sitauti on the left wing and Highlanders flyer Tino Nemani on the right.

Johan Bardoull will make his debut at lock.

The John Drake Boot, in memory of the late All Blacks prop, is up for grabs and is held by the Steamers after last year's outstanding 37-16 win over Auckland in Rotorua.

The match kicks off at 2.35pm.