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Sport | Canada

Bateman to lead haka?

Māori All Blacks Captain Tim Bateman is the likely candidate to lead the haka against the Eagles on Sunday, after an injury to Piri Weepu.

However, there are a few experienced players in the team who could slide into that role.

It's the first cultural session for the two new boys, Chris Smylie and Quentin MacDonald, which will help them bond quickly with the team.

Despite both players being part of the Māori tours in the past, they're more than happy to be back in the team with the possibility of wearing the Māori jersey again and performing the haka.

Regardless of who leads the haka, it will be performed with lots of passion on Sunday.

The Māori All Blacks cultural advisor Luke Crawford speaks to Te Kāea regarding the progression of the team.