Chiefs name experienced team for historic match

Tawera Kerr-Barlow returns to halfback for the Chiefs against the the Jaguares this weekend. Photo/Ben Fraser

History will be made Sunday morning when the Jaguares host their first ever Super Rugby game against the Gallagher Chiefs in Buenos Aires.

With strong performances in the opening two rounds of the 2016 competition, the Jaguares have proven they're a credible threat.

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie has named an experienced line-up to take on the Jaguares in front of an anticipated capacity crowd at José Amalfitani Stadium.

There are several changes to the Chiefs team who secured a seven try bonus point victory over the Southern Kings, winning 58-24 in Port Elizabeth last Saturday.

In the forwards, Japan tighthead specialist Hiroshi Yamashita and veteran hooker Hika Elliot return to the starting fifteen to pack down alongside Mitchell Graham who retains his place at loosehead. Michael Allardice and Johan Bardoul continue their locking partnership, with Tom Sanders returning to the fold to start at blindside flanker alongside co-captain Sam Cane and number 8 Michael Leitch.

There are three changes in the backs, with Tawera Kerr-Barlow getting the nod at halfback and Sam McNicol set to make his first start for the Chiefs on the right wing. Anton Lienert-Brown has earned his first start of the season at centre with Seta Tamanivalu ready to add impact off the bench.

The rest of the backline is unchanged with first five-eighth Aaron Cruden, wing James Lowe and second five-eighth Charlie Ngatai retaining their jerseys for the third consecutive week.

Damian McKenzie has the opportunity to shine again at fullback, hot off an exceptional performance against the Kings where he contributed 28 points to the Chiefs scorecard with a flawless kicking display and try.

"The Jaguares are an impressive unit but we've prepared well, and are looking forward to the challenge. We've been well looked after since our arrival and it's exciting to be part of the first Super Rugby game in Argentina. We'll have to feed off the passionate and vocal crowd," said Rennie.

Chiefs team to play the Jaguares:

1. Mitchell Graham
2. Hika Elliot
3. Hiroshi Yamashita
4. Michael Allardice
5. Johan Bardoul
6. Tom Sanders
7. Sam Cane - co-captain
8. Michael Leitch
9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow
10. Aaron Cruden -co-captain
11. James Lowe
12. Charlie Ngatai
13. Anton Lienert-Brown
14. Sam McNicol
15. Damian McKenzie

RESERVES:

16. Rhys Marshall
17. Pauliasi Manu
18. Siate Tokolahi
19. Taleni Seu
20. Maama Vaipulu
21. Brad Weber
22. Seta Tamanivalu
23. Glen Fisiiahi