The Stags team to take on Hawkes Bay this Saturday is an exciting start to the season. With the team bond strong from their time in Japan they are looking forward to their hit out against the mighty Hawkes Bay.

The tight forwards are a returning trio from 2016 with their usual starting line up of Joesph Walsh, Brayden Mitchell (C) and Highlander's tight head prop Guy Millar. New to the province is right lock Manaaki Selby-Rickit who had a stand out performance for Star rugby club this year and helped his team reach the premier grade final. He will be along side Mike McKee lining up for his 3rd Stags campaign. 

With the assembly of Elliot Dixon for 2017 enhances the loose forwards with the combination of Phil Halder, Tim Boys and Elliot at number 8. Liam Howley returns at halfback from injury with his first official NPC game since 2015 along side Southlander Scott Eade starting at number 10 who returns from his campaign with Otago in 2016.

The backs have a mixture of returning and new talent with Southlander Mike Molloy on the left wing and a great combination of Neria Fomai, Ryan Tongia, Marist's Matt Johnson with Lewis Ormond at fullback to provide a strong performance for their forward pack. 

Reserves:

Flynn Thomas

Shaun Stodart

Morgan Mitchell

Tepasu Thomas

Bill Fukofuka

Greg Dyer

James Schrader

Aleki Morris

Stags V Hawkes Bay, 2.35pm Saturday 19th August, McLean Park Napier