Rugby: Chiefs make six changes

Tawera Kerr-Barlow. Photo / Getty Images

Six changes to the Chiefs starting lineup for Friday night's Super Rugby derby with the Blues in Hamilton.

Three changes are injury enforced with 20-year-old Hawke's Bay tighthead Ben Tameifuna to make his Super Rugby debut in place of Ben Afeaki.

Tawera Kerr-Barlow comes in for Brendon Leonard at halfback and Aseli Tikoirotuma replaces Lelia Masaga on the right wing.

The other changes see Mahonri Schwagler start at hooker, Tanerau Latimer at openside and Kane Thompson at number eight.

They replaced the trio of Hika Elliot, Fritz Lee and Sam Cane, who all drop to the bench joining four potential debutante's Shane Cleaver, Augustine Pulu, Andrew Horrell and Declan O'Donnell.

Chiefs:
1. Arizona Taumalolo
2. Mahonri Schwalger
3. Ben Tameifuna
4. Craig Clarke
5. Brodie Retallick
6. Liam Messam
7. Tanerau Latimer
8. Kane Thompson
9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow
10. Aaron Cruden
11. Tim Nanai-Williams
12. Sonny Bill Williams
13. Richard Kahui
14. Asaeli Tikoirotuma
15. Robbie Robinson
16. Hika Elliot
17. Shane Cleaver
18. Fritz Lee
19. Sam Cane
20. Augustine Pulu
21. Andrew Horrell
22. Declan O'Donnell