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Regional | Rugby

Wellington Lions prepare for match against Waikato Taniwha

Wellington rugby has a reputation of spitting out some of the country’s finest halfbacks including Piri Weepu and TJ Perenara, and now two more are on the rise.

Frae Wilson will be starting for the Lions in this week’s ITM Cup match against Northland, but his spot isn't safe, with one Ngāti Porou youngster close at his heels.

It has been a leap of faith for Sheridan Rangihuna, but it seems to have paid off.

“Chris Boyd was our coach and I asked him is there any room down here?  He said it’s not going to be easy but there is a spot,” says Sheridan Rangihuna.

The 20 year old has been named on the bench for the Wellington Lions, behind Highlanders halfback Frae Wilson.

Frae Wilson says, “With Sheridan and that coming in it keeps you on your heels.  If you take a step away, someone will just come in and take your place, so you just have to keep doing what you’re doing best.”

Wilson is back on his home turf, and after a knee injury ruled him out of the game in June, he is ready to fill the shoes of TJ Perenara who’s away on All Black duties.

After going down to Waikato last week in their season opener, it will be all hands on deck this weekend against the Taniwha.

The Lions kick off against the Taniwha on Saturday at 2:35pm at Toll Stadium, Whangarei.