The Hurricanes have named their team ahead of Saturday’s 2:35PM blockbuster clash with the Chiefs at Sky Stadium, with few changes to the 23 that beat the Highlanders last weekend.
In the forward pack, Asafo Aumua returns to the run-on team, with Dane Coles, who celebrates his 300th first class match this weekend, looks to provide impact off the bench.
Devan Flanders returns from injury to blindside shifting Brayden Iose to the bench.
With Billy Proctor ruled out with injury, Peter Umaga-Jensen makes his first start of the season, linking up with Jordie Barrett in the midfield.
Julian Savea returns to his regular starting sport, with the match marking his 148th Super Rugby appearance and sitting 2 tries away from the Super Rugby try scoring record.
Tevita Mafileo will look to provide impact at prop from the bench.
The Hurricanes are going for a fifth successive win this weekend, something they have not achieved since 2020.
Hurricanes Head Coach, Jason Holland, said he was expecting an exciting matchup with the Chiefs.
“The Chiefs are a quality side. They have a powerful forward pack and are complimented with some exciting backs who are scoring some great tries.
“We need to be physical and accurate in everything we do to enable us to play our style of rugby to win this weekend.
“It’s a brilliant opportunity to play in the afternoon and looking forward to seeing a big crowd and lots of kids at Sky Stadium,” said Holland.
The Hurricanes will take on the Chiefs this Saturday, April 15 at 2:35PM at Sky Stadium. Gates open from 1PM. Tickets are available at https://hurricanes.flicket.co.nz/
Hurricanes named to take on the Chiefs:
1 Xavier Numia
2 Asafo Aumua
3 Tyrel Lomax
4 James Blackwell
5 Dominic Bird
6 Devan Flanders
7 Du’Plessis Kirifi
8 Ardie Savea ©
9 Cameron Roigard
10 Aidan Morgan
11 Salesi Rayasi
12 Jordie Barrett
13 Peter Umaga-Jensen
14 Julian Savea
15 Josh Moorby
Reserves
16 Dane Coles
17 Tevita Mafileo
18 Pasilio Tosi
19 TK Howden
20 Brayden Iose
21 Peter Lakai
22 Jamie Booth
23 Harry Godfrey
Unavailable for selection: Ruben Love, Caleb Delany, Tyler Laubscher, Reed Prinsep, Justin Sangster, TJ Perenara, Devan Flanders, Brett Cameron, Daniel Sinkinson, Billy Proctor, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Bailyn Sullivan