Rugby: Veteran poised for run-on debut with BoP

Bay of Plenty v Hawkes Bay

He is one of the most experienced players still lacing up his rugby boots at first-class level in New Zealand, but To'o Vaega starts from scratch today when he makes his run-on debut for Bay of Plenty.

Vaega will play at second five-eighths in the NPC second-division match against championship leaders Hawkes Bay at the Tauranga Domain.

He played a bit-part in Bay's 19-16 win over Wanganui two weeks ago, coming off the bench in the final 15 minutes, but finally feels part of his new environment with his inclusion in the starting XV.

"I've fitted in and been made to feel very welcome by the guys but it is extra good to get a start."

Vaega is one of four players on loan from Auckland. His Manu Samoa team-mate Toa Samania joined the squad last week with lock Jason Chandler and wing Rico Gear.

Bay coach Gordon Tietjens said Vaega offered too much experience and skill to be left languishing on the bench, although his inclusion has prompted an inside back cleanout.

Halfback Rameka Poihipi has dropped to the bench for Chris Le Lievre to make his run-on debut, while new first five-eighths Rodney Gibbs has been replaced by Tongan captain Elisi Vunapola. Fullback Paul Waiariki has the kicking duties.

Vaega is in remarkable shape for a 35-year-old and played a key role in Samoa's recent Pacific Rim championship win, where he took his tally of international games to 114, including 53 tests - the first Samoan to play more than 100 games.

He believes he can add to that in seasons to come. "I was really happy with how I performed this year."

He says Bay's strong Maori tradition appealed - "[It's] very similar to our Samoan culture." Vaega replaced former Samoan team-mate Eroni Clarke, recalled by Auckland in the Bay squad.

Bay of Plenty: Paul Waiariki, Keith Pryor, Justin Wilson, Rico Gear, To'o Vaega, Elisi Vunapola, Chris Le Lievre, Clayton McMillan (captain), Craig De Goldi, Jason Chandler, Paul Tupai, Jason Emery or Dave Gorrie, Tevita Taumoepeau, Thompson Tapsell, Steve Simpkins. Reserves: Rameka Poihipi, Toa Samania, Ngoro Ingram, Craig Lockwood, Kingi Houkamau, Rowan Frost, Emery or Gorrie.

Hawkes Bay: Aaron Hamilton, Karl Mudzamba, Murdoch Paewai, Kirk Wotherspoon, Davis Norman, Antony Papenfus, Ricky Sciascia, Mutu Ngarimu (captain), Tafai Ioasa, Robert Evans, Daniel Quate, Michael Johnson, Joseph Lao, Mohani Schwalger, Clint Newlands. Reserves: Reece Spee, Waka Petera, Scott Leighton or Roger Chappell, Onehunga Mata'uiau, Peter Bielski, Nisifolo Nauhau, Reece Robinson or Sam Ebbitt.

- NZPA