Kahui on the bench for Waikato

All Blacks centre Richard Kahui will end an eight week stint on the sidelines after being named in the Waikato team for their ITM Cup championship match against North Harbour in Albany on Saturday.

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Kahui has been sidelined since he sustained a shoulder injury during New Zealand's opening Tri-Nations test against South Africa in Auckland on July 10, but he has been named on the bench for Saturday's match at North Harbour Stadium.

"It's great having Richard back in the side and great to see him in the Waikato colours," Waikato coach Chris Gibbes said.

"He's excited by his opportunity this week to get back on the park."

In the only change to the starting lineup, Brendon Leonard replaces Tawera Kerr-Barlow at halfback.

Waikato: Sosene Anesi, Tim Mikkelson, Save Tokula, Christian Lealiifano, Dwayne Sweeney, Trent Renata, Brendon Leonard, Steven Setephano, Jack Lam, Liam Messam, Dominiko Waqaniburotu, Toby Lynn, Nathan White, Aled de Malmanche, Toby Smith. Reserves: Vern Kamo, Ben May, Romana Graham, Matt Vant Leven, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Richard Kahui, Sam Christie.