Chiefs coach David Rennie is welcoming the return of star utility back Charlie Ngatai after almost a year’s absence due to concussion.
His last Chiefs game was almost a year to the day ago against the Highlanders in Super Rugby action when he suffered a serious concussion.
Ngatai along with hooker Nathan Harris and lock Michael Allardice are all fit and available for selection again.
And Rennie says Ngatai has built up enough match fitness at club level to be considered for selection.
“He’s in good nick, he’s ready to go,” Rennie told TVNZ.
“Really nice for Charlie as he’s worked hard to get himself in good nick.
“It’s fantastic to have him back because in my opinion he was the best player in Super Rugby last year.”
Also expect the return of Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Tim Nanai-Williams and Brodie Retallick for the weekend’s clash with the Reds and Rennie is delighted with the strength in depth in his Chiefs side.
“It’s great to have so many guys on their feet and it certainly makes training more intense with a lot more competition for places,” he added.
“We’ve got ourselves into a pretty good position on the table.
“We’re not firing as we want to but the key to winning the title is having momentum and playing your best footy at the end of the year so that’s what we’re working towards.”
And Rennie is looking for a more clinical approach for his side and has urged them to convert their chances when they are presented with them.
“We’re still adapting our game and you’ll see a slightly different approach against the Reds,” Rennie concluded.
“It would be nice to put a team under pressure and put them away.”
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