Nine new caps in Otago squad

Samoan test lock Pelu Pavihi is one of nine new caps named in the Otago rugby squad for the upcoming new provincial competition.

Pavihi gets a chance with All Black lock James Ryan still out injured.

New Otago coach Steve Martin says they have watched Pavihi's form closely during the Pacific Five Nations, and he deserves his selection.

Martin says he has come through the B team and impressed in club rugby as a real athletic prospect.

Steve Martin has picked a 30-strong squad which includes a fit-again Nick Evans who is set to make his return for Otago next Friday night in a warm-up game against Harbour at Onewa Domain.

Craig Newby will again captain Otago.

Team: Josh Blackie, Neil Brew, Callum Bruce, Keith Cameron, Craig Clare, Ed Cocker, Luke Devcich, Nick Evans, Tom Donnelly, Alipate Fatafehi, Nigel Hall, Karne Hesketh, Charlie Hore, Glen Horton, Dan Joblin, Chris King, Filipo Levi, Seilala Mapusua, Jason Macdonald, Toby Morland, Craig Newby (C), Pelu Pavihi, Grant Polson, Alando Soakai, Ben Smith, Chris Smylie, Ezra Taylor, Adam Thomson, Jed Vercoe, Greg Zampach

- NEWSTALK ZB