Rugby: Tony Brown back for Otago

Tony Brown has returned in one of six changes to the Otago team for Saturday's match at Carisbrook.

The prolific-scoring first five-eighths has recovered from a foot injury and will play his first competition game of the season for Otago, resuming his partnership with fellow All Black Byron Kelleher.

"Tony's come through well," Otago coach Kevin Gloag said last night.

"His foot hasn't flared up in the two trainings this week and we're comfortable he's ready to go."

The other changes to last Saturday's team are Tom Willis for Oliver, Justin Swart for James Jowsey at fullback, Romi Ropati for the injured Brendan Laney on the wing, Taine Randell for Paul Miller in a reshuffled loose forward trio and Carl Hoeft for Joe McDonnell at loosehead prop.

Former Springbok Swart will have his first start for Otago.

Ropati, recently recovered from a shoulder injury, will have his first start this season.

Hayden Reid will switch to the right wing to allow Ropati to play on his favoured left side.

Captain Kelvin Middleton has gone to No 8 with Josh Kronfeld and Randell playing as flankers.

Middleton has been retained as captain for the rest of the season, with former leader Randell pledging his full support.

"The captaincy is not an issue with me," Randell said.

"I'm quite happy just to play for Otago and obviously Kelvin will have my full support."

Meanwhile, Counties Manukau centre George Leaupepe received a one-week suspension yesterday after being found guilty of a dangerous tackle in Saturday's NPC rugby match against Canterbury.

- NZPA