, April 9 -- Veteran lock Jimmy Tupou will make his Moana Pasifika debut, when the team hosts the Chiefs at Rotorua International Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Tupou will go up against his former team who he played for during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, bringing his valuable experience and leadership to spark energy off the bench.

Previously he played for the Blues, Crusaders and Japanese club Urayasu D-Rocks. He also played a key role when Counties Manukau won an NPC title in 2012.

Joining Tupou on the bench is hard-working loose forward Semisi Paea who is excited to be back in his hometown.

Paea was raised in Rotorua and attended Rotorua Boys High School. He has played for Ngongotaha Rugby Club, Whakarewarewa and has also been part ...