Hard-running centre Adam Whitelock comes into the starting line-up in one of several changes to Canterbury’s back-line for tomorrow night’s Air New Zealand Cup match against Hawkes Bay at AMI Stadium.

Tim Bateman, who played at centre in Canterbury’s victory over Bay of Plenty last week, moves to second-five, with Hamish Gard starting on the reserves bench.

Scott Hamilton moves from the wing to fullback, with Colin Slade starting on the bench.

James Paterson, who had game time off the bench last week, starts in the No 14 jersey.

The only change in the forwards is at openside flanker, where Hayden Hopgood comes in for George Whitelock.

Canterbury assistant coach John Haggart said his side were aware of the threat in Hawkes Bay’s backs. "They’re young and very enthusiastic and we’ll have to concentrate all game. We pride ourselves on our defence here but we won’t be taking anything for granted.

"The Bay’s forwards are very physical too, so we are very focused on this game. It’s our last home game before the quarter-finals so we want to put in a good one."

Hawkes Bay are third on the points table, one place and four points behind Canterbury.

The Canterbury team to play Hawkes Bay at AMI Stadium, kicking off at 7.35pm on Saturday, September 26, is:

15. Scott Hamilton

14. James Paterson

13. Adam Whitelock

12. Tim Bateman

11. Sean Maitland

10. Stephen Brett

9. Andrew Ellis

8. Mose Tuiali’i

7. Hayden Hopgood

6. Kieran Read (c)

5. Isaac Ross

4. Michael Paterson

3. Owen Franks

2. Ti’i Paulo

1. Wyatt Crockett