The Chiefs have called up New Zealand Sevens and Bay of Plenty representative Nick Collins to replace injured former All Black centre Scott McLeod.
McLeod hurt his shoulder in training on Thursday evening, giving Collins his opportunity. He will sit on the substitutes' bench for the game against theCrusaders in Christchurch Saturday evening.
Chiefs Coach John Mitchell explained today that Collins trained well when a member of the Chiefs pre-selection squad back in November.
"He really impressed in the squad and as a result gained selection in the New Zealand Sevens team - now we have him for two games.His selection fits with our policy of selecting players from within our franchise area wherever possible," Mitchell says.
McLeod injured his AC joint and should be back for the Chiefs game against the Highlanders in Rotorua on March 30. Promising first-five David Hill also hurt his shoulder in training on Tursday and is a doubtful starter for the Chiefs game against the Blues in Rotorua on March 16.
The Chiefs side to play the Crusaders is :
Loki Crichton, Roger Randle, Keith Lowen, Mark Ranby, Bruce Reihana, Glen Jackson, Danny Lee, Deon Muir, Marty Holah, Jonno Gibbes, Keith Robinson, Royce Willis, Deacon Manu, Guy Coleman, Tim Knight.
Substitutes: Paul Mitchell, Tama Turirangi, Chris Masoe, Koula Tukino, Karl Te Nana, Nick Collins, Issac Boss.