Bay of Plenty Steamers have announced their team to play in their Ranfurly Shield Challenge against Hawke's Bay today at McLean Park in Napier at 2.35pm.
Head Coach Clayton McMillan has made a number changes to the starting XV, that faced Taranaki in Rotorua last Saturday. The back line has been reshuffled; Nick Evemy starting at first five eight, with Lalakai Foketi moving to second five eight. Craig Clare returns to the right wing, and is joined by the return of Tino Nemani at centre and Elijah Nicolas on the left wing. The final change sees Chase Tiatia move to full back.
"Hawke's Bay are a significant challenge and one the team are excited about and have prepared well for," McMillan said.
"The added incentive of challenging for the Ranfurly Shield has bought an edge to our week, and is a fantastic opportunity for the players and the Union.
"There has not been a lot of discussion surrounding the shield, we just need to get our preparation right and get to the start line. Once the whistle goes the occasion will take care of itself, and if the team plays to its potential and is prepared to spill some blood for 80 minutes, we will be in the race." McMillan said.