Big Sona could be on the way

DON’T be surprised to see powerful Tongan prop Sona Taumalolo back at the Chiefs next year.

There may also be a chance for New Zealand under-20s star Damien McKenzie to make his Super Rugby debut with the defending champions.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie confirmed he was in talks with Taumalolo, who is believed to have an out clause with recently relegated French club Perpignan.

The 32-year-old is thought to be exploring the possibility of returning to Hawke’s Bay and the Chiefs, following a two-year stint in France.

‘‘We’ve spoken to him,’’ Rennie said. ‘‘We’ve kept tabs on him the whole time he’s been away.’’

For All Blacks flanker Sam Cane to have any chance of making a comeback from his fractured knee, the Chiefs need to reach the finale this year.

‘‘Auckland and former Blues openside Sean Polwart has been called in to provide support, with Tanerau Latimer and Tasman’s Tevita Koloamatangi the remaining cover at seven.

‘‘We’ll probably have to go all the way to the final for him to be right in time,’’ Rennie said of Cane.

Having recently signed for Waikato, but yet to commit to a Super Rugby team next year, McKenzie is understood to have also joined the Chiefs as cover for Robbie Robinson. McKenzie, who can slot in at first five-eighth and fullback, was a standout for the under-20s this month.

The Chiefs are also in the hunt for a wing, with Alesana Tikoirotuma joining Harlequins at the end of the season. Hosea Gear is thought to be keen on coming home next year. And, fitness permitting, Rennie said he’d love to bring Richard Kahui back from Japan.