Rugby: Umaga out of Wellington clash

Tana Umaga. Photo / Dean Purcell

There'll be no homecoming for former All Black captain Tana Umaga this weekend.

One of Wellington's favourite sons has been left out of the Counties Manukau side for Sunday's ITM Cup match against the Lions in the capital.

He's been replaced by youngster Reynold Lee-Lo at second five while Baden Kerr comes in for Dean Cummins at first five.

Umaga will be rested every few games to nurse him through the season.

Counties Manukau has a potential Ranfurly Shield challenge next week if Southland successfully defends it against Otago on Saturday night.

- NEWSTALK ZB