The Hurricanes Hunters have named a strong side ahead of their match against the Chiefs Taua on Saturday afternoon at Sky Stadium. The match will be the first of a double-header, with the Round Eight Super Rugby Pacific match between the Hurricanes and Chiefs to follow later that evening (kick-off 7.05pm).
While the Hunters are a development side, due to the depth of the Hurricanes main squad, many frontline players will turn out for the team, including outside backs Salesi Rayasi and Harry Godfrey, front-rower Tevita Mafileo, and five-eighth Aidan Morgan, who will also captain the side.
The rest of the side will be made up of Provincial Union (PU) wider squad members and Hurricanes U20 players.
Hurricanes Hunters Head Coach Darren Larsen said the players are excited about the match as it will give them a chance to hunt for a position in the main team, as well as test themselves at a higher level.
“It’s a massive opportunity for our guys as they get a chance to play at this level,” said Larsen.
“We’ve got a good number of experienced Hurricanes players in the side, but it also gives an opportunity to put some of our U20 and PU boys around them which will only benefit them in the future.
“Now is the chance for these guys to put their foot forward and show what they’ve got in a competitive environment at Sky Stadium, so we’re looking forward to it.”
The Hurricanes Hunters team to play the Chiefs Taua at Sky Stadium in Wellington. Kick-off 4.05pm.
- Tevita Mafileo
- Raymond Tuputupu
- Siale Lauaki (Vice-Captain)
- Ben Grant
- Josh Taula
- Dominic Ropeti
- Veveni Lasaqa
- Patrick Tuifua
- Jordi Viljoen
- Aidan Morgan (Captain)
- Salesi Rayasi
- Riley Higgins
- Bailyn Sullivan
- Daniel Sinkinson
- Harry Godfrey
- Vernon Bason
- Konradd Newland
- Benet Kumeroa
- Tom Allen
- Sione Halalilo
- Kyle Preston
- Reon Paul
- Sam Coles
- Logan Wallace