Source link : https://rugby-247.com/2025/03/01/chiefs-vs-act-brumbies-super-rugby-pacific/
For the second straight week the Brumbies will be without their main playmaker, with Noah Lolesio still sidelined due to concussion ahead of the clash with the Chiefs on Saturday (2.35pm AEDT). Join The Roar for live scores and updates.
The Wallabies flyhalf was concussed against the Drua and missed his side’s narrow defeat to the Force last Saturday, with Declan Meredith pulling the strings in the No.10 jersey.
Despite the surprise defeat, Larkham has backed the 25-year-old to build on his performance with Jack Debreczeni included on the bench.
Larkham has otherwise named a settled side for their Saturday afternoon showdown, with Rory Scott the only change to the starting side.
The versatile back-rower replaced Tom Hooper, who was concussed against the Force.
DUBLIN, IRELAND – NOVEMBER 30: Noah Lolesio of Australia shouts instructions during the Autumn Nations Series 2024 match between Ireland and Australia at the Aviva Stadium on November 30, 2024 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
(Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Despite the absence of Lolesio, there’s plenty of quality in Larkham’s side with an all-Wallabies tight-five that will be better for the run last week after being eased in 2025.
It’s a light and mobile back-row, with Scott joined by Luke Reimer and Charlie Cale.
Ollie Sapsford will continue in the No.12 jersey, with Exeter-bound Len Ikitau at outside centre.
The back three is a familiar one, with fullback Tom Wright once again joined by Andy Muirhead and Corey Toole.
All Blacks hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho makes his return via the bench while there are five changes to the Chiefs starting lineup, with a debut for winger Manasa Mataele.
All Black Quinn Tupaea takes over the No. 12 jersey after scans confirmed Rameka Poihipi is out for the season with a knee injury.
Brodie McAlister replaces Bradley Slater at starting hooker, Samipeni Finau returns to the back row with skipper Luke Jacobson missing with a facial injury.
CHIEFS (1-15): Aidan Ross, Brodie McAllister, George Dyer, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa’i (c), Samipeni Finau, Jahrome Brown, Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Josh Jacomb, Manasa Mataele, Quinn Tupaea, Anton Lienert-Brown, Emoni Narawa, Damian McKenzie
Replacements: Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris, Sione Ahio, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Daniel Rona, Gideon Wrampling
BRUMBIES (1-15): James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa (c), Nick Frost, Cadeyrn Neville, Rory Scott, Luke Reimer, Charlie Cale, Ryan Lonergan, Declan Meredith, Corey Toole, Ollie Sapsford, Len Ikitau, Andy Muirhead, Tom Wright
Replacements: Lachlan Lonergan, Blake Schoupp, Rhys van Nek, Lachlan Shaw, Judah Saumaisue, Harrison Goddard, Jack Debreczeni, Hudson Creighton
Referee: James Doleman
Assistant Referees: Marcus Playle, Fraser Hannon
TMO: Richard Kelly
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Author : rugby-247
Publish date : 2025-03-01 08:43:24
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