Openside flanker Sam Cane will miss the Chiefs’ Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes in Wellington because of injury.

Tanerau Latimer’s inclusion in place of Cane because of “a slight back strain” is one of four changes to the defending champions’ starting 15 for Friday night.

Charlie Ngatai has recovered from a hamstring complaint to take over from Save Tokula at centre.

On the left wing, Asaeli Tikoirotuma comes back from a breather on the bench after having had a big workload this season.

The other change is the return of Pauliasi Manu at loosehead prop.

The Chiefs’ injury woes means Hawke’s Bay five-eighth Dan Waenga has been called in as cover and gets a place on the bench.

Chiefs: Robbie Robinson, Lelia Masaga, Charlie Ngatai, Bundee Aki, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Matt Vant Leven, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Craig Clarke (captain), Ben Afeaki, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu. Res: Mahonri Schwalger, Ben Tameifuna, Michael Fitzgerald, Nick Crosswell, Augustine Pulu, Dan Waenga, Save Tokula.