The Chiefs have announced a strengthened back row for their upcoming semi-final against the Brumbies, set for Saturday. All Blacks representatives Wallace Sititi and Luke Jacobson feature prominently in coach Clayton McMillan’s starting lineup. Sititi, who previously came off the bench during the Chiefs’ loss to the Blues, joins Jacobson, who missed that match due to injury.
In a strategic shake-up, Sititi and Jacobson replace Simon Parker and Kaylum Boshier, while centre Quinn Tupaea returns from injury, taking the place of Gideon Wrampling. McMillan praised the Brumbies, highlighting their status as the top Australian side, noting their resilience and tactical prowess demonstrated in their recent match against the Hurricanes. He emphasised the need for the Chiefs to match the Brumbies’ structured play and strong set-piece strategy.
Meanwhile, Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham has opted for continuity by maintaining an unchanged squad, reflecting confidence in his team’s performance. Larkham expressed satisfaction with their recent form and the importance of emotional control during high-stakes matches. He acknowledged the expected support from passionate fans at FMG Stadium Waikato, foreseeing an electrifying atmosphere for both teams.
The semi-final clash will commence on Saturday, June 14, at 5.05pm AEST, featuring the following line-ups:
Chiefs:
- Ollie Norris
- Samisoni Taukei’aho
- George Dyer
- Naitoa Ah Kuoi
- Tupou Vaa’i
- Samipeni Finau
- Luke Jacobson (c)
- Wallace Sititi
- Cortez Ratima
- Damian McKenzie
- Leroy Carter
- Quinn Tupaea
- Daniel Rona
- Emoni Narawa
- Shaun Stevenson
Replacements:
- Brodie McAlister
- Jared Proffit
- Reuben O’Neill
- Jimmy Tupou
- Kaylum Boshier
- Xavier Roe
- Josh Jacomb
- Gideon Wrampling
Brumbies:
- James Slipper
- Billy Pollard
- Allan Alaalatoa
- Nick Frost
- Tom Hooper
- Rob Valetini
- Rory Scott
- Tuaina Taii Tualima
- Ryan Lonergan
- Noah Lolesio
- Corey Toole
- David Feliuai
- Len Ikitau
- Andy Muirhead
- Tom Wright
Replacements:
- Lachlan Lonergan
- Lington Ieli
- Feao Fotuaika
- Lachlan Shaw
- Luke Reimer
- Harrison Goddard
- Declan Meredith
- Ollie Sapsford
Referee: Nic Berry
Assistant Referees: Damon Murphy, Jordan Way
TMO: Brett Cronan
As the match approaches, both teams are set to deliver an exciting spectacle in this thrilling contest.