Chiefs finally get Leinert-Brown back but lose Retallick

Photo: Photosport

The All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown will take the field for the just second time this season for the Chiefs, in what will be his 100th Super Rugby game.

Lienert-Brown is finally over the ankle injury he suffered in the season-opener against the Crusaders in Christchurch and returns to the starting line for the unbeaten competition leaders at second five for the match against the struggling Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday night.

Last year he managed just four Super Rugby before a shoulder injury ruled him out for six months, meaning he also missed a large chunk of the All Blacks international programme.

“Anton sets the bar in our team in terms of work rate, passion and competitiveness, and we hope we can put in a team performance befitting of the man and occasion,” said coach Clayton McMillan.

Chiefs lock Brodie Retallick
Photo: Photosport Ltd 2019www.photosport.nz

While Leinert-Brown returns, the Chiefs lose All Black lock Brodie Retallick who suffered a groin injury late in the side’s win over the Crusaders last round.

The front row maintains its strong connection with Aidan Ross, Samisoni Taukei’aho and George Dyer once again named to start.

Lock Naitoa Ah Kuoi moves into the starting lineup alongside Tupou Vaa’i.

Pita Gus Sowakula also makes the shift to start in the loose forwards alongside Sam Cane and Luke Jacobson.

Brad Weber returns at halfback with Damian McKenzie, who recently extended his contract with the Chiefs, at first-five.

Rookie Peniasi Malimali earns his first starting spot on the wing, with Emoni Narawa securing the other.

Daniel Rona slots back into centre with Shaun Stevenson at full-back.

-RNZ