Rugby: Weepu set to continue at first five

Piri Weepu is likely to start in the No 10 jersey against Bay of Plenty on Saturday. Photo / Greg Bowker

Piri Weepu is destined to again start at first five-eighth for Wellington in this weekend's round of the Air New Zealand Cup.

The All Blacks halfback ran on in the No 10 jersey against Southland last weekend and it is likely he will be asked to do it again when the Lions meet Bay of Plenty on Saturday.

Wellington assistant coach Andre Bell says they have considered all the options.

He says they thought about playing Fa'atonu Fili but believe Weepu gives them the options they need for this game.

Former All Blacks lock Ross Filipo is back for the first time this season. He has missed Wellington's opening four games with a calf injury.

Meanwhile, Auckland coach Pat Lam is expected to name Joe Rokocoko in his team for Saturday's match against Waikato.

The All Blacks winger is back after a lengthy stint on the sidelines with a wrist injury.

Rokocoko could be in line to replace suspended winger Watisoni Lotawa. He is out for a week after being found guilty of striking in Auckland's win over Manawatu last weekend.

- NEWSTALK ZB