Backline changes are a feature of the Tasman Mako side named for Sunday’s Ranfurly Shield challenge against Northland in Whangarei.
Marist halfback Wil Thornalley replaces Stoke’s Mason Lund, while Taine Robinson gets promoted to fullback with Maloni Kunawave switching to the wing.
Midfield pairing David Havili and Cooper Roberts, who were late withdrawals from the run-on XV last week, are down to start again this week.
The only change in the forwards is hooker Eli Oudenryn elevated to start with Richie Asiata dropping to the bench.
Prop Ryan Coxon returns from a head knock via the reserves.
There is plenty of player turnover since Tasman’s last shield challenge against Canterbury last season where the holders scored an 83rd minute try to repel the visitors 31-25.
Tasman Mako starting XV: 1-Tom Heywood, 2-Eli Oudenryn, 3-Kershawl Sykes-Martin, 4-Hunter Leppien, 5-Antonio Shalfoon, 6-Lopeti Faifua, 7-Rory Scott, 8-Johnny Lee©, 9-Wil Thornalley, 10-William Havili, 11-Maloni Kunawave, 12-David Havili, 13-Cooper Roberts, 14-Kyren Taumoefolau, 15-Taine Robinson. Reserves: 16-Richie Asiata, 17- Ryan Coxon, 18-Sione Mafi, 19-Jake Frost, 20-Tayne Hemopo, 21-Mason Lund, 22-Cooper Grant, 23-Nic Sauira.
Kick-off is at 17.05pm on Sunday in Whangarei.
