Kelleher benched on return for Waikato

Tried and tested combinations feature in the Waikato team named today for the Air New Zealand Cup Top Six rugby match against Wellington in Hamilton on Saturday.

Coach Warren Gatland named Brendon Leonard at halfback ahead of returning All Black Byron Kelleher.

Leonard has overcome a foot injury, while Kelleher has been named on the bench.

Leonard will combine with first five-eighth Stephen Donald, who returns after serving a one-week suspension for a dangerous tackle.

David Hill is at second five-eighth, with Richard Kahui at centre.

In the forwards, captain Steven Bates starts on the blindside flank, Marty Holah on the openside and powerhouse Sione Lauaki at No 8, with Liam Messam on the reserves bench.

Hooker Tom Willis was not available for selection due to an ankle injury he sustained last weekend.

Gatland said his team were keen to make the most of their two consecutive home games in this stage of the competition.

He said they needed to capitalise on their home advantage as they seek a home quarterfinal.

Waikato:

Dwayne Sweeney, Sosene Anesi, Richard Kahui, David Hill, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard, Sione Lauaki, Marty Holah, Steven Bates (captain), Jono Gibbes, Toby Lynn, Nathan White, Scott Linklater, Craig West.

Reserves:

Aled de Malmanche, Sam Biddles, Mark Burman, Liam Messam, Byron Kelleher, Roger Randle, Roy Kinikinilau/Loki Crichton.

- NZPA