Hamilton based Super Rugby franchise the Chiefs have called hooker Hika Elliot into their team from New Zealand to play the Southern Kings in Port Elizabeth.
Elliot is en route to South Africa to replace Nathan Harris who sustained a head knock during a contact session.
The change sees Rhys Marshall move to the starting line-up with Elliot taking his place on the bench.
Should Elliot take the field it will be his first appearance for the Chiefs this year after sustaining a concussion in the preseason. Elliot has made a full recovery and is eager to get back on the field with his teammates.
Elliot’s skill was evident on Wednesday afternoon when he took the field for the University of Waikato Chiefs Development team.
The 88 cap hooker put on an exceptional performance, playing a key role in his side’s 43-12 win over the Hurricanes Development team.
Chiefs
1. Mitchell Graham , 2. Rhys Marshall , 3. Siate Tokolahi , 4. Michael Allardice , 5. Johan Bardoul , 6. Taleni Seu , 7. Sam Cane (cc) , 8. Michael Leitch , 9. Brad Weber , 10. Aaron Cruden (cc) , 11. James Lowe , 12. Charlie Ngatai , 13. Seta Tamanivalu , 14. Glen Fisiiahi , 15. Damian McKenzie
Replacements : 16. Hika Elliot , 17. Pauliasi Manu , 18. Atu Moli** , 19. James Tucker** , 20. Maama Vaipulu , 21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow , 22. Anton Lienert-Brown , 23. Sam McNicol*
*denotes Chiefs debut
**denotes Super Rugby debutant
