Tuitavake ruled out of Chiefs game

Highlanders centre Anthony Tuitavake has been ruled out of Thursday night's Super 12 warm-up game against the Chiefs in Rotorua.

Tuitavake was to have started, but he has been ruled out with an ankle sprain which he suffered on Monday.

Coach Greg Cooper says there is no point risking him a week out from the start of the competition.

Cooper says the aim at the moment is the Blues in week one, so it is crucial all the players are ready for next week.

Apart from Tuitavake, Cooper will start with his first-choice 15 against the Chiefs tomorrow, but he admits there are still a couple of positions they are looking at.

That side will be announced on Wednesday.

- NEWSTALK ZB