Hawke's Bay coach Peter Russell has named an experienced side for this season's Air New Zealand Cup campaign.

The Magpies have been semi-finalists for the past two seasons.

Props Clint Newland and Sono Taumalolo return from Super 14 sides the Highlanders and Chiefs, while hooker Hika Elliot completes a powerful front row. Super 14 players Karl Lowe, George Naoupu and new recruit Thomas Waldrom are part of a formidable loose forward unit.

The likes of Highlanders Matt Berquist, Jason Shoemark and Israel Dagg along with Hurricanes flyer Zac Guildford form the mainstay of the backline.

All Black lock Bryn Evans is expected to be available for part of the campaign.

The full squad is:

Forwards - Josh Keys, Jody Allen, Clint Newland, Sona Taumalolo, Ash Dixon, Hikawera Elliot, Michael Johnson, Ross Kennedy, Matt Egan, Hugh Reed, Adam Bradey, Karl Lowe, George Naoupu, Thomas Waldrom, Pama Petia, Bryn Evans (when available).

Backs - Chris Eaton, Dane Shelford, Matt Berquist, Andrew Horrell, Aayden Clarke, Sam Giddens, Richard Buckman, Jason Shoemark (capt), Nick Thomson, Mark Jackman, Zac Guildford, Jason Kupa, Israel Dagg.