Force have 'secret weapon' against Chiefs

SPOTLIGHT: Western Force has ramped up preparations for Saturday's Super Rugby Trans-Tasman season opener against the Chiefs at HBF Park.

The season opener is set to be a big occasion, as it’s the first time the Force has taken on a New Zealand side in a Super Rugby clash since 2017.

Having been a part of the Chiefs 2012 Super Rugby title-winning side, Force utility back Richard Kahui can't wait to line up against his former side.

"The Chiefs are a huge part of who I am as a rugby player. It will be mixed emotions, but I'm really looking forward to it," the former All Black said.

"When you play any sport, you want to test yourself against the best and that's what the Kiwi teams are. It's a big test for our boys, but it's fantastic to have this competition, as it's great for rugby.

"The guys are really excited to battle it out with the Kiwi teams."

Commenting on the upcoming challenge, prop Tom Robertson cannot wait for the Round 1 match-up in front of the passionate Sea of Blue.

"You always want to challenge yourself against the best. The Crusaders and the Chiefs were the two best teams in the New Zealand competition this year and deserved to make the Grand Final. We are really looking forward to getting into the Chiefs this week,” he explained.

“We’ve had such good preparation. Having the week off last week gives us that edge against our opposition.

“It’s awesome to have fans that are so dedicated to the game and so loud, it’s great for the team.”

Reigning Nathan Sharpe medallist [Force Best and Fairest] Fergus Lee-Warner is primed and ready for the occasion.

"Back in 2018 I didn't think I'd be running out against the Chiefs, so I'm excited to tick it off the bucket list," Lee-Warner explained.

"Experience is really important within the squad. Players like Thrush, Holmes and Kahui will give us direction, but it's up to the whole squad to compete at an elite level.

"We were on a good roll in the latter part of the Super Rugby AU season, so we want to keep that momentum going into the Chiefs game and really stick it to them in front of a big crowd at HBF Park."