Rugby: Cane on bench again for Chiefs

Chiefs' flanker Sam Cane has again been left on the bench for the Super Rugby semifinal against the Crusaders on Friday. Photo / Getty Images.

Chiefs' flanker Sam Cane has again been left on the bench for the Super Rugby semifinal against the Crusaders on Friday.

Cane, expected to be Richie McCaw's replacement as All Blacks' openside flanker, has lost out to Tanerau Latimer for the match at Waikato Stadium. He also started from the bench in the 28-21 defeat by the Crusaders in Hamilton on July 6.

Sona Taumalolo starts at loosehead prop, with fellow front-rower Ben Afeaki returning from injury on the bench.

Andrew Horrell again starts at centre following his selection there against the Crusaders three weeks ago. Robbie Robinson is at fullback.

Chiefs team to play the Crusaders in a Super Rugby semifinal at Waikato Stadium on Friday, kick-off 7.35pm is:

Robbie Robinson, Tim Nanai-Williams, Andrew Horrell, Sonny Bill Williams, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Kane Thompson, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Craig Clarke (c), Ben Tameifuna, Mahonri Schwalger, Sona Taumalolo. Reserves: Hika Elliot, Ben Afeaki, Michael Fitzgerald, Sam Cane, Brendon Leonard, Jackson Willison, Lelia Masaga.