Rennie tweaks Chiefs for Crusaders clash

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has made two changes to his run-on team for Friday’s Super Rugby match against the Crusaders in Hamilton.

Ben Tameifuna comes in at prop for Ben Afeaki, out this week with a calf strain, while Patrick Osborne starts on the wing.

Three changes have been made to the bench, with Toby Smith, Sam Cane and Lelia Masaga moving into the reserves.

Bay of Plenty midfielder and former Highlander Kenny Lynn has been bought into the squad as midfield cover.

The Chiefs have lost midfield options Richard Kahui (shoulder) and Andrew Horrell to ankle problems, while key utilities Tim Nanai-Williams (groin) and Gareth Anscombe (fractured foot) won’t be fit until after the three-week break for the international window in June.

Chiefs: Robbie Robinson, Patrick Osborne, Charlie Ngatai, Bundee Aki, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Matt Vant Leven, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Craig Clarke, Ben Tameifuna, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu. Reserves: Mahonri Schwalger, Toby Smith, Michael Fitzgerald, Sam Cane, Augustine Pulu, Dan Waenga, Lelia Masaga.

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