The Southland Stags return to the National Provincial Championship field tomorrow after a six-week hiatus due to lockdown.

But game, due to kick off at 4.05pm at Rugby Park Invercargill, will be played under closed gates due to Covid alert level 2.

The squad sees the return of Woodlands’ Matt Whaanga and Marty McKenzie from injury.

Rory van Vugt returns to the number 11 jersey in his first game back in NZ following his stint in Major League Rugby in the USA.

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And two Southland players are set to make their debuts. Former Wyndham player Grayson Knapp starting in the number 6 jersey, while Pirates- Old Boys’ Dustin Coveney is the covering flanker.

Rugby Southland have contacted the 2021 Season Membership Ticket Holders, sponsor/stakeholders, and family of players directly with details of how to attend the game.

"Rugby Southland would like to thank the fans for their understanding during this strange time and encourage the large support base to get out to their local with family and friends and catch the game while supporting the local community," a spokesman says.

The next game for the SIT Zero Fees-sponsored squad is home vs Manawatu on October 10th, when hopefully fans will be able to attend

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SIT Zero Fees Southland Stags Squad

1. Joseph Walsh

2. Greg Pleasants-Tate

3. Christopher Apoua

4. Joel Everson

5. Michael McKee

6. Grayson Knapp (debut)

7. Matthew James

8. Tony Lamborn ©

9. Josh Renton

10. Martin Banks

11. Rory van Vugt

12. Matt Whaanga

13. Isaac Te Tamaki

14. Solomon Alaimalo

15. Josh Moorby

16. Flynn Thomas

17. Paula Latu

18. Tom Ross

19. Dustin Coveney (debut)

20. Sione Misiloi

21. Lisati Milo-Harris

22. Martin McKenzie

23. Willie Tufui