World cup hero returns to Chiefs

Stephen Donald returns to the Chiefs after a five year absence. Photo/File

The hero of the Rugby World Cup final in 2011 will don the Chiefs jersey first the first time in five years in Hamilton on Saturday.

Veteran utility back Stephen Donald is in line to play his 86th game for the Chiefs when they Chiefs meet the Western Force at FMG Stadium

Gallagher Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie has made minimal changes to the team which started against the Jaguares last Saturday in Buenos Aires. In the forwards, Siate Tokolahi is promoted from the bench to start alongside Mitchell Graham and Hika Elliot.

With Johan Bardoul sidelined with a broken thumb, Taleni Seu gets an opportunity to impress at lock. Seu teams up in the second row with Michael Allardice, who makes his fifth consecutive start for the Chiefs.

Loose forwards Tom Sanders, Sam Cane and Michael Leitch combine for the second week in a row.

Fresh home from a whirlwind international tour to South Africa and Argentina where the team recorded two important victories against the Southern Kings and Jaguares, the New Zealand Conference leaders are eager to put on a winning performance and secure their first victory at home in 2016.

There are just two changes in the backs, with Brad Weber to start at halfback and Seta Tamanivalu to wear jersey 13, replacing Anton Lienert-Brown who is unavailable for selection due to a minor knee injury.

First five-eighth Aaron Cruden, wing James Lowe, second five-eighth Charlie Ngatai and fullback Damian McKenzie offer continuity and confidence, starting for the fifth consecutive week in a row. Sam McNicol has earned his second start following a strong debut performance for the Chiefs against the Jaguares, contributing to the 30-26 scoreline with a brilliant try.

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie said: "The past couple of days has been a lot about recovery and clarity. We have a big training day today in preparation for a side we've always battled against and who'll be looking to bounce back from last week's final 20 minutes. While unbeaten on the road, we're keen to front at home for our family, friends and supporters, and we've brought in fresh legs to help with this."

The changes extend beyond the team with supporters at Saturday's game set to be the first to see the brand new big screen in action.

The 70 square metre second screen is located at the western end of the stadium in the Green Zone embankment area. The state of the art screen will enhance the viewing experience for fans with crystal clear replays and entertainment playing out for all to see.

The Gallagher Chiefs team to play the Western Force is:

1. Mitchell Graham (15)

2. Hika Elliot (90)

3. Siate Tokolahi (21)

4. Michael Allardice (11)

5. Taleni Seu (5)

6. Tom Sanders (3)

7. Sam Cane (69) co-captain

8. Michael Leitch (16)

9. Brad Weber (28)

10. Aaron Cruden (60) co-captain

11. James Lowe (25)

12. Charlie Ngatai (35)

13. Seta Tamanivalu (10)

14. Sam McNicol (2)

15. Damian McKenzie (20)

RESERVES:

16. Rhys Marshall (26)

17. Atu Moli (1)

18. Siegfried Fisi'ihoi**

19. James Tucker (1)

20. Sam Henwood**

21. Kayne Hammington**

22. Stephen Donald (85)

23. Toni Pulu**