Auckland Storm Head Coach, Willie Walker has named one of his strongest sides for the opening round of the Farah Palmer Cup presented by Bunnings Warehouse.

With a handful of senior players not available for selection, Walker has had the luxury of choosing from a deep selection of young talent and seasoned veterans.

The Blue and White Hoops will welcome Bay of Plenty Volcanix to Eden Park on Saturday afternoon in what is shaping up to be a big day for the Auckland Rugby Community. Kickoff is at 12:05pm, thanks to SkyTower – Lighting up female rugby.

Eloise Blackwell will once again lead the Auckland Storm from Lock. Blackwell will be joined by familiar faces in the forward pack with seven of the eight starting pack involved in the 2020 season.

Canadian international, Magali Harvey will debut for the Auckland Storm at fullback with Luisa Togotogorua looking to continue her impressive form at halfback.

College Rifles first-five, Ruahei Demant will be pulling the strings for Auckland and the familiar sights of Natahlia Moors, Princess Elliot, Mele Hufunga and Sylvia Brunt will make up the electrifying back-line for the Storm.

The 2020 fixture between the two sides was a tight affair at Bell Park in Auckland with the Storm emerging victorious 22-19. Walker is aware of what the Volcanix can bring to the game but is confident with how the Storm’s pre-season has gone

“Bay of Plenty have always been strong opposition, and in recent seasons, have proved that they are a contending side in the competition. The girls have had a strong pre-season and the team have come together really well. We are all just looking forward to getting out there on Saturday and getting the season underway.”

The first-round match between the Auckland Storm and Bay of Plenty Volcanix will be followed by the Goodyear Gallaher Shield Final between Eden and Grammar TEC, with kickoff at 2:45pm.

Entry into Eden Park will be free, and the Auckland Rugby Community is encouraged to come down and support their teams.

Auckland Storm team v Bay of Plenty

1. Cilia-Marie Po'e

2. Cristo Tofa

3. Aldora Itunu

4. Eloise Blackwell (Captain)

5. Maia Roos

6. Tafito Lafaele

7. Shannon Leota

8. Liana Mikaele-Tu'u

9. Lusia Togotogorua

10. Ruahei Demant

11. Natahlia Moors

12. Mele Hufunga

13. Sylvia Brunt

14. Princess Elliot

15. Magali Harvey

16. Alakoka Po'oi

17. Doris Taufateau

18. Sophie Fisher

19. Maama Vaipulu

20. Onjeurlina Leiataua

21. Jennifer-rose Reu

22. Corina Nanai Vai

23. Sam Curtis