Holwell gets Lions start

Sentiment has won the day with first five-eighth David Holwell set to start for Wellington in his farewell match.

The 60-game veteran plays in a Lions starting side that includes five changes to the team that lost to Bay of Plenty last week.

Coach John Plumtree said there had never been any thought of starting Holwell on the bench behind Riki Flutey, as has been the case since he announced this month he would leave for Ireland.

"It's his last game and it was always the plan to play him in this game. It's a really big match for him and the boys are looking forward to giving him a fitting send off at Wellington Stadium.

Holwell played down his farewell match. "For me it's just another game. I will treat it like any other game in the Wellington jersey."

NPC leaders Taranaki will be bolstered by the return of All Black hooker Andrew Hore and leading try scorer Shayne Austin.

- NZPA