Rugby: Sonny Bill out with injury again

Halfback Takerei Norton will make his debut for Canterbury in a national provincial championship rugby match against North Harbour at Christchurch on Friday night.

Norton, 31, has been named to start after recovering from a hamstring strain.

Others returning from injury are loose forward Nasi Manu and Patrick Osborne, who have been included on the reserves bench.

Hooker Corey Flynn and lock Sam Whitelock have been released from All Blacks duties and will start the match, as will Robbie Fruean, who made a big impact at centre when coming on as a replacement in the first half against Manawatu last week.

Midfield back Sonny Bill Williams, who made his New Zealand rugby debut last weekend when turning out for his Belfast club in Christchurch, is not available for selection due to a tight hamstring.

Canterbury: Sean Maitland, Telusa Veainu, Robbie Fruean, Stephen Brett, Sam Monaghan, Colin Slade, Takerei Norton, Ash Parker, George Whitelock (captain), Matt Todd, Isaac Ross, Sam Whitelock, Peter Borlase, Corey Flynn, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Paul Ngauamo, Andrew Olorenshaw, Luke Romano,

Nasi Manu, Andy Ellis, Robbie Flynn, Patrick Osborne.

- NZPA