Kevin Senio will start at halfback for Canterbury. Photo / Getty Images
Fullback Scott Hamilton, halfback Kevin Senio and flanker Johnny Leo'o have been reinstated to the starting 15 for Canterbury's Air NZ Cup/Ranfurly Shield rugby match against Waikato on Saturday.
The experienced trio were all given lighter playing loads last weekend, coming off the reserves bench in the 64-10
win over Manawatu.
The only other change to the Canterbury starting formation from that match has seen Paul Williams return to the wing after an outing from fullback against Manawatu, while Steven Yates is listed among the reserves.
Lock/loose forward Michael Paterson returns on the bench, after not having featured since the opening round.
His participation will not be confirmed until after today's practise session and Paterson has been bracketed with Nasi Manu.
"There were some tough selection calls, but we were in the fortunate position of having a full muster to choose from and that is certainly pleasing six weeks into the competition," Canterbury coach Rob Penney said.
"The whole group is excited about the opportunity ahead. Ranfurly Shield challenges are rare - some great servants of Canterbury rugby never got to experience the thrill of playing in one of these games."
Waikato thumped North Harbour 52-7 last weekend to win the shield and the match against Canterbury represents the first defence in their tenure in Hamilton.
Canterbury
Scott Hamilton, Rico Gear, Casey Laulala, Tim Bateman, Paul Williams, Stephen Brett, Kevin Senio, Mose Tuiali'i, Johnny Leo'o, Kieran Read, Kevin O'Neill, Isaac Ross, Campbell Johnstone, Corey Flynn (captain), Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: Mikaele Tuu'u, Ben Franks, Michael Paterson/Nasi Manu, Hayden Hopgood, Tyson Keats, Hamish Gard, Steven Yates.
- NZPA
