Canterbury name strong side to round off Storm Week against Hawke’s Bay
The return of Captain Billy Harmon and All Black Braydon Ennor are just a couple of the changes made by Head Coach Marty Bourke as Canterbury look to end their storm week with a win against the in-form Hawke’s Bay.
Facing their third game in 10 days, while a number of senior players return to the side, 15 of the team that defeated North Harbour will feature once again.
“What we build towards each week is gameday, so while the busy week can provide it’s challenges, it’s been a enjoyable week with the 3 games as it allows us to focus on connections and clarity” said Bourke.
“The players have really put their head down and we’ve made some great strides this week, and we now want to cap that off with a strong performance at home against Hawke’s Bay.”
“The last couple of years, Hawke’s Bay have had the wood on us but we have talked about us being the best we can be and the result will take care of itself.”
Billy Harmon shifts to number eight in the absence of Cullen Grace, with Tom Christie and Corey Kellow partnering him in the loose forwards.
George Bell, who received three Duane Monkley Medal points against North Harbour, is joined in the front row by the returning Finlay Brewis and Oli Jager, with Sam Darry and Dominic Gardiner rounding out the starting forward pack.
“Each week we have focused on going out there and meeting teams up front, and this group will be no different come Sunday.” said Forwards Coach Craig Dunlea.
In the backs, the 9/10 combo of Mitchell Drummond and Fergus Burke returns, while Rameka Poihipi will partner Ennor in the midfield.
A back three of Chay Fihaki, George Bridge and Ngane Punivai will provide an ever-present danger from the back. Punivai has continued his return from long covid with his first full game against North Harbour, and has been rewarded with another start on the right wing this week.
On the bench, Daniel Lienert-Brown will earn his second blazer if he takes the field on Sunday, set to represent Canterbury for the 62nd time.
“DLB is a great team man and someone who constantly gives his all on and off the field.” said Dunlea.
“Having the experience of him, (Luke) Romano, (Ben) Funnell and (Willi) Heinz on the bench means we have some excellent options to call upon when required.”
With the game being played as Double Header alongside the FPC semi-final and the weather looking good, Bourke has encouraged fans to get down and support both sides this weekend.
“Both teams will flourish on the support that our passionate Cantabrians give them, and I encourage as many people as possible to come down to cheer our sides on and enjoy the occasion as they represent you this Sunday.” Bourke said.
The NPC match kicks off at 2:05pm, with tickets available here.
