The Chiefs have suffered a serious double blow as they get ready for tomorrow night's Super Rugby showdown with the Hurricanes in Wellington, with both Sonny Bill Williams and James Lowe ruled out through injury.
Williams has a back strain, which is expected to keep him out of action for only a week, while a shoulder ailment plaguing Lowe for the last fortnight has flared up after training.
New Zealand Under‑20s utility Anton Leinert‑Brown will replace Williams and Bryce Heem will move onto the left wing, with Marty McKenzie coming onto the bench.
The withdrawals will deny fans and All Blacks selectors a couple of eagerly‑awaited duels. Williams and Hurricanes second five Ma'a Nonu will be battling for the No12 jersey later in the year, while Lowe has also been linked with higher honours ahead of what would have been a serious test against Cory Jane and Julian Savea.
The Chiefs will play the Hurricanes at 7.35pm tomorrow. In tonights matches, the Blues will play the Bulls at 7.35 while the Reds will face the Rebels at 9.40.
