ITM Cup
Hawke's Bay's Buckman out of NPC final
October 23, 2014
The Highlanders' Richard Buckman is pulled down by Conrad Smith, Hurricanes v Highlanders, Super Rugby, Westpac Stadium, May 16, 2014
Hawke's Bay fullback Richard Buckman in action for the Highlanders earlier this year © Getty Images
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A knee injury has ruled Hawke's Bay fullback Richard Buckman out of the NPC Championship division final against Manawatu.

Highlanders outside back Buckman makes way for veteran back Mathew Berquist in the only change to the starting team which beat Northland 26-21 in last weekend's semi-final. Buckman suffered his injury during that game, sidelining him for an expected period of six weeks.

Ranfurly Shield-holders Hawkes Bay, relegated from the Premiership in 2012, will re-enter the top flight if they beat top qualifiers Manawatu in the final at Palmerston North on Friday.

Hawkes Bay: Mathew Berquist, Ryan Tongia, Robbie Fruean, Jason Shoemark, Shannan Chase, Ihaia West, Chris Eaton, Brendon O'Connor, Tony Lamborn, Trent Boswell-Wakefield, Mark Abbott, Michael Allardice, Jason Marshall, Ash Dixon, Brendon Edmonds (Replacements to be confirmed).

© AAP

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