Rivals will know exactly what they need to do

A 4.35pm Sunday kickoff would normally hold the appeal of day-old porridge, but this weekend it suits Waikato and North Harbour just fine.

The two will round off the Top Six playoff stage in Hamilton and when they emerge from the tunnel they'll know precisely what is needed to not only be certain of a home quarter-final, but also to finish in the top two and greatly enhance their chances of a semifinal in their backyard.

Both have 31 points, two behind Auckland, who complete their programme tonight. If Auckland are tripped up in Christchurch, the Hamilton contest assumes extra significance as the winner, potentially, can see themselves at home right through to the final on October 21, assuming they keep winning.

Waikato coach Warren Gatland has retained the same pack from the impressive win over Wellington, but left open the prospect of a late change at lock.

Keith Robinson returned to top-flight rugby in rousing fashion against Wellington, while veteran Jono Gibbes has passed a concussion test after taking a hefty blow in the same game.

Gatland knows Robinson, on the mend after a couple of years battling a lengthy back injury, isn't going to last 80 minutes for the rest of the campaign. He also recognises the importance of Gibbes to the overall setup.

So depending on Auckland's result, he might make a change. Presumably if Waikato can finish top they'll start; if not, one of them might go to the bench to replace the other at some point.

"He's been a huge bonus for us and we've got to make sure we look after him," Gatland said of Robinson yesterday.

Boom loose forward Liam Messam starts on the bench again, Gatland reflecting on his good fortune as the depth of his resources in that area where he has Sione Lauaki at No 8, captain Steven Bates at blindside flank and Marty Holah on the open side.

"It's pretty special really. It's hard leaving Liam out at the start, but it's been difficult. Steven was under a bit of pressure but he put in a fantastic performance last week."

All Black Mils Muliaina plays his first game for Waikato at fullback.

"He's probably the best fullback in the world and one of the best centres. I spoke to Mils and we wanted to put him where he was most comfortable," Gatland added.

Another All Black, Byron Kelleher starts at halfback instead of the impressive Brendon Leonard.

Harbour, having had a week of getting used to the Ranfurly Shield sitting in their trophy cabinet, must get their minds on the job at hand.

No matter what is said, it won't be easy, not only physically but mentally. History is strewn with examples of teams going flat after lifting the shield.

"We've talked about that and it's right to recognise that history. But it's an open question, what has that history got to do with this team?" Harbour coach Allan Pollock said.

Prop Mike Noble, hooker James Hinchco and lock Doug Fletcher get recalls to the pack; the backline remains unchanged.

The other change is on the bench, where Jonah Lomu has been replaced, and will play for the Harbour second XV against Taranaki at Albany. Pollock said Lomu needed game time.

He is confident his players are sufficiently seasoned not to let shield parades and hoopla play with their minds. The D word - distraction - won't be an excuse if his players fail to deliver a committed performance.

There are interesting backline matchups, among them Sitiveni Sivivatu up against fellow Fijian flyer Vili Waqaseduadua on one wing; rising talent Richard Kahui and Dwayne Sweeney locking midfield horns with Anthony Tuitavake and Rua Tipoki; and No 10s Stephen Donald and Luke McAlister squaring off.

Waikato v North Harbour
Waikato Stadium, tomorrow, 4.35pm

Waikato:
Mils Muliaina, Roy Kinikinilau, Richard Kahui, Dwayne Sweeney, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Stephen Donald, Byron Kelleher, Sione Lauaki, Marty Holah, Steven Bates (c), Jono Gibbes, Keith Robinson, Nathan White, Scott Linklater, Craig West.

Reserves:
Aled de Malmanche, Ted Tauroa, Toby Lynn, Liam Messam, Brendon Leonard, Loki Crichton, Roger Randle

North Harbour:
George Pisi, V. Waqaseduadua, A. Tuitavake, Rua Tipoki (c), Rudi Wulf, Luke McAlister, James Rodley, Nick Williams, Regan Tamihere, Anthony Boric, Greg Rawlinson, Doug Fletcher, Mike Noble, James Hinchco, Tony Woodcock.

Reserves:
Ngarimu Simpkins, Adrian Donald/Michael Reid, Ryan Wilson, Viliame Ma'afu, Junior Poluleuligaga, Tusi Pisi, Zar Lawrence