Former New Zealand under-19 rugby hooker Hika Elliot will get his first NPC second division starting appearance for Hawke's Bay against Wanganui at Napier's McLean Park on Saturday.
A member of the 2004 World Cup-winning New Zealand under-19 side and a former New Zealand Secondary Schools captain, Elliot, has made five appearances off the bench for the Magpies this season.
He replaces regular starter Danny Logan in one of three changes coach Brendon Ratcliffe has made to the starting 15 used for last Saturday's 52-20 win over Poverty Bay in Gisborne.
"We're keen to see how Hika handles the starting role and it's the same with James," Ratcliffe said, referring to fullback James Rosenberg, who replaces Donovan Nepia.
Winger Karl Mudzamba, who hasn't played since suffering a hamstring injury in the opening round against Nelson Bays, replaces fellow speedster Ben Allen who hasn't recovered from his ankle injury suffered against Poverty Bay.
New Zealand sevens player Tafai Ioasa, prop Tom Symes and wingers Kevin Ward and Ray Karauria are unavailable for the Wanganui match because of injury.
- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY
Young hooker gets starting debut for Magpies
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.
