Mako NPC team named to play Manawatu

Friday 2 September, 7.05pm

Central Energy Trust Arena, Palmerston North

By Peter Jones [Marlborough App]

The return of skipper Quinten Strange and powerhouse winger Leicester Fainga’anuku has given the Tasman Mako a much-needed boost heading into Friday’s clash with Bunnings NPC cellar-dwellers Manawatu in Palmerston North.

With the Mako having dropped three of their four matches so far, their clash with the Turbos is a must-win if they are to turn their season around.

Strange returns from injury to lead the side, while Fainga’anuku has been released from All Blacks back-up duties to play his second Mako match this campaign, pushing the outstanding Timoci Tavatavanawai to the bench.

Also returning are loosie Max Hicks, reserve prop Isaac Salmon and midfielder Fetuli Paea, whose inclusion relegates midfield workhorse Alex Nankivell to the bench.

A major change comes at first five, with Willie Havili replacing Campbell Parata, who has started the previous four matches.

Sam Moli comes into the reserves for centurion Quentin MacDonald.

Now facing three matches in 10 days, two of them away, this is a pivotal period for Tasman if they are force their way into quarterfinal contention.