Waikato FPC first five-eighth Kiriana Nolan is poised to make her Chiefs Manawa debut off the bench on Saturday. Photo / Photosport
Waikato FPC first five-eighth Kiriana Nolan is poised to make her Chiefs Manawa debut off the bench on Saturday. Photo / Photosport
Kihikihi Rugby Sports Club and Waikato Farah Palmer Cup back Kiriana Nolan is set for a potential Super Rugby Aupiki debut off the bench for the Chiefs Manawa on Saturday against Matatū.
A largely unchanged side is named for round three with minimal rotation occurring through the starting 15.
Nolanwill be the only new addition to the side while her Kihikihi clubmate Chyna Hohepa moves into the No 8 jersey.
Last weekend’s debutant Reese Anderson earns a starting spot on the wing and Azalleyah Maaka steps into the midfield.
At halfback, Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu starts with Ariana Bayler to provide impact.
“It’s always a tough game against Matatū. Our focus this week is on ourselves, looking inward, and doing everything we can to be a better team,” Chiefs Manawa head coach Crystal Kaua said.
“We have a lot of depth within our squad and you will see that in the changes each week, they are challenging each other and Thursdays on the field is a battle. We have another debutant this week in Kiri Nolan, a fearless young player with a big future. We are excited for her.”
The match will kick off at 4.35pm this Saturday at FMG Stadium Waikato, followed by the Gallagher Chiefs against the Fijian Drua at 7.30pm in a Chiefs Festival of Rugby.
