Levi called into Tasman squad

TASMAN HAS drafted in Manu Samoa and former Highlanders lock Filipo Levi as injury cover.

The Makos only have two fit second-rowers, with Joe Wheeler and Ben Coman being unavailable.

Wheeler damaged a knee during Sunday's clash against Counties Manukau and is out for at least eight days and Coman, who is yet to play in the ITM Cup this year, won't be fit for at least two more weeks.

So the experienced Levi will join locks Pablo Heuete and Riki Hoeata as temporary cover for the next few games.

“We needed a power lock in the short term and we are lucky to get him,” coach Kieran Keane told the Marlborough Express.

“He's as keen as mustard and it's good for him to get game time before the World Cup.

“He's a player that can add a bit of steel to our forward pack.”

Levi, who was part of the Samoan team which beat the Wallabies, is likely to play three or four matches for the Makos.

Tasman plays Waikato in Hamilton on Friday night.