Fullback
Taieri's Josh Casey has scored seven tries in the past three games and is back playing exhilarating rugby following a long struggle with an ankle complaint.
Wingers
Southern outside back Josh Gordon was in lethal form until he broke his jaw in the first five minutes against Zingari-Richmond this month. Kaikorai's Matt Jones runs good angles and has been a steady influence at the back.
Centre
Burly Taieri midfielder Matt Whaanga has added more finesse to his game this season.
Second five-eighth
Kaikorai's TJ Ane has a terrific fend and is a hard man to cut down. He starts ahead of Kori Rupene, who is a good influence in the midfield for the Eels.
Green Island pivot Finn Strawbridge is the best of the bunch. He has a quality kicking game and a good pass.
Halfback
Taieri's Kurt Hammer never has a bad game. He does the basics really well and something special most weeks.
No 8
Harbour's Solomon Pole is a good consolation following the departure of Southern's Mika Mafi. He's an abrasive ball carrier, as well.
Openside
University's Jack McHugh fends off some stiff competition. The hardworking loosie is the sort of player who keeps chasing and makes that try-saving tackle on the line.
Blindside
University's Sam Dickson brings a lot of aggression and is a good lineout option. He nudges out Kaikorai's Christian Lio-Willie, who has the helpful knack of busting the defence.
Locks
University's Josh Hill has wonderful athleticism and looks a player with a bright future. He is joined by Harbour enforcer Joketani Koroi. He is not the best lineout jumper but he is strong ball carrier and adds weight to the scrum.
Tighthead
Dunedin's Teague McElroy was having a breakthrough season until he suffered a horrific injury. Highlanders prop Kalolo Tuiloma is devastating when available for Green Island but the spot goes to Southern bookend Hisa Sasagi.
Loosehead
Kaikorai's Jonah Aoina is a solid scrummager and has an eye for the try line.
Hooker
University's Kilipati Lea has been climbing the rankings and making a good impression most weeks. He takes the spot ahead of the much improved Alhambra-Union front rower Alex Frood.