Chiefs to play Rotorua tri-match (update)

The Chiefs will play an unconventional format match in Rotorua next week.

While the Super 15 takes a break for a few weeks, the Chiefs will take on a Bay of Plenty Wasps XV and a Counties Manukau Cavaliers XV at Rotorua International Stadium.

The match - on Wednesday, June 20 - will see the Kevin Schuler-coached Wasps take on the Tana Umaga-coached Cavaliers for half a game before each plays another half against the Chiefs. Entry to the match is $2 and gates open at 2.45pm for a 3pm start.

Chiefs assistant coach Tom Coventry said the game was an opportunity to get the team back together and have some match practice for the next stage of their season.

"It is also good for us to connect with our Chiefs region and it also gives the players involved with the Wasps and the Cavaliers a chance to match up with our boys and put their hand up to play ITM Cup for their provinces."

A Chiefs spokeswoman said the Chiefs came up with the concept and it was a new initiative.

The Wasps and Cavaliers teams are players who are seeking positions in the ITM Cup tournament, she said.

She said the Chiefs side to play in Rotorua was still to be named.

This will be the first and only time the Chiefs play in Rotorua this season.

Events and Venues operations manager Crispian Stewart said the match had been organised so they [the Chiefs] don't go into the end of the Super 15 competition without a run in between.

Mr Stewart said the Chiefs side to play in Rotorua would not include any of those who also play for the All Blacks as they will still be in All Black camp.

"We have allocated signing sessions so the kids will have plenty of access to the players."

Game 1: 3pm Wasps XV v Cavaliers XV.

Game 2: 3.50pm Chiefs v Cavaliers XV.

Game 3: 4.40pm Chiefs v Wasps XV