Injured players return for Waikato

Waikato coach Warren Gatland today named his 35-man squad for the national rugby championship commencing on July 28.

The squad includes three key players who missed last season through serious injury -- fullback Loki Crichton, hooker Tom Willis and lock Keith Robinson.

Several new players were also included with backs Mils Muliaina and Roy Kinikinilau recent transfers.

Waikato's first match is against Southland on August 5.

WAIKATO

Forwards: Sam Biddles, Andre Ellison, Aled de Malmanche, Ted Tauroa, Craig West, Nathan White, Scott Linklater, Tom Willis, Mark Burman, Kent Fife, Jono Gibbes, Sean Hohneck, Toby Lynn, Ben Paurini, Keith Robinson, Steven Bates (captain), Marty Holah, Sione Lauaki, Liam Messam, Steven Setephano.

Backs: Bryon Kelleher, Brendon Leonard, Malcolm Barnes, Stephen Donald, David Hill, William Ripia, Richard Kahui, Zion Nordstrom, Dwayne Sweeney, Roy Kinikinilau, Jared Payne, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Sosene Anesi, Loki Crichton, Mils Muliaina.

- NZPA