Bunnings Warehouse NPC (Round 2)
Auckland vs Otago
Friday, 16th August
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Kick-off: 7:05 pm

26-test Australian Rugby veteran and Moana Pasifika player Christian Leali’ifano will debut for the Auckland Gulls.

After an agreed loan from Waikato Rugby, Leali’ifano will start in the number 10 jersey for the Blue and White hoops in their face-off against Otago on Friday.

It comes after minor injuries to Zarn Sullivan, Alex Harford and Rico Simpson after their round 1 match against Wellington.

A star in the New Zealand Under 20s World Cup squad Xavier Tito-Harris will start at full-back for the team moving bone-crunching runner Lolagi Visinia to the right wing.

Auckland will now have two powerhouse wingers with Nigel Ah Wong remaining on the left wing.

Tomas Aoake has been named on the bench after a successful season with San Diego Legion Rugby in the United States.

Auckland’s side will look to build on the positives from the week before as most of the team remains unchanged.

Experienced players have begun mentoring younger athletes, helping them develop and aspire to higher achievements, much like Harry Plummer, who earned a call-up to the All Blacks squad.

The Auckland Storm (Bunnings Warehouse FPC) has a bye this week.

Auckland Gulls: NPC

1.    Joshua Fusitua
2.    Soane Vikena
3.    Marcel Renata
4.    Joshua Beehre
5.    Michael Curry
6.    Adrian Choat
7.    Anton Segner
8.    Akira Ioane (Captain)
9.    Taufa Funaki
10.    Christian Leali’ifano*
11.    Nigel Ah Wong
12.    Tanielu Tele’a
13.    AJ Lam (Vice Captain)
14.    Lolagi Visinia
15.    Xavier Tito-Harris

Reserves:
16.    Sama Malolo
17.    Jordan Lay
18.    Angus Ta’avao
19.    Edward Annandale
20.    Vaiolini Ekuasi
21.    Kemara Hauiti-Parapara
22.    Xavi Taele
23.    Tomas Aoake

Key:
*= Debut

For specific requests regarding interviews with coaches and players, don't hesitate to get in touch with Rugby Media Manager Aaron Ryan at aaron.ryan@aucklandrugby.co.nz or +64210373232

Article added: Thursday 15 August 2024