Rugby: Six Rotorua players in trial squad

Whakarewarewa player Whaimotu Craft-Chemis (with ball) is one of six Rotorua players named for a Bay of Plenty Steamers trial match tonight. Photo/Ben Fraser

A trial game will be held in Te Puke as part of the next stage of the Bay of Plenty Steamers' selection for the 2014 ITM Cup.

Six Rotorua players have been named in the trial teams to play tonight at Murray Salt Stadium in Te Puke at 7pm.

Whakarewarewa players Doug Edwards, Riiki Waitoa, Siegfried Fisiihoi, Te Rangi Fraser and Whaimotu Craft-Chemis have been named, while Rotoiti's Joe Royal has also been included. Rotoiti's Jesse Acton is injured but is part of the Bay squad.

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union have named two teams and 15 reserves to take part in the Steamers' team trial.

The last time an official Bay of Plenty trial was held was in 2009.

As well as the current high performance squad players, 15 players who have performed well in club rugby have been invited to join the trial squad.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive Mike Rogers said it was good to have the trial game return.

"We would like to thank the Wasps Rugby Football Club for their help in resurrecting the trial."

After the trial, the Bay squad will be narrowed down to play a three-way game with the Chiefs and Harlequins on Tuesday, June 17.

The final Steamers squad will be announced at the end of June.