Rugby: One change for Canterbury

Ryan Crotty. Photo / Getty Images

Canterbury coach Rob Penney has made one change to his side for Friday's national provincial championship rugby semifinal against Wellington.

Lock Luke Romano, who injured a knee in the Ranfurly Shield victory over Southlandin Invercargill three weeks ago and missed the past two matches, returns to the starting lineup.

Rob Verbakel, who made his starting debut for Canterbury against Waikato last weekend, drops to the bench.

Not available for selection because of injury were Hooker Corey Flynn (calf), loose forward George Whitelock (knee), centre Adam Whitelock (concussion).

Canterbury beat Wellington 37-30 in the regular season five weeks ago but coach Rob Penney said that match would have little bearing on Friday.

"There are personnel changes to both sides and it's fair to say there's a lot more riding on this game.

"But we're confident we'll give a good account of ourselves in front of our home crowd."

Canterbury side:

Sean Maitland, Tu Umaga-Marshall, Robbie Fruean, Ryan Crotty, Telusa Veainu, Colin Slade, Willi Heinz, Nasi Manu, Matt Todd, Ash Parker, Isaac Ross, Luke Romano, Peter Borlase, Steve Fualau, Wyatt Crockett (captain).

Reserves: Paul Ngauamo, Andrew Olorenshaw, Rob Verbakel, Brendon O'Connor, Takerei Norton, Stephen Brett, Sam Monaghan.

- NZPA