After holding out a fast-finishing Western Force 45-42 in Palmerston North on Sunday, the Hurricanes are preparing to head to Dunedin this Easter weekend to take on the Highlanders in Round 7 of the DHL Super Rugby Pacific competition. 

Head Coach Jason Holland has named a new look run-on side for the Hurricanes, with 7 players backing up since Sunday’s clash.   

In the forward pack, Xavier Numia returns to the run-on team, shifting Pouri Rakete-Stones to provide cover from the bench. Isaia Walker-Leawere returns from injury to link up with James Blackwell at lock.  

With the return of captain Ardie Savea to number eight following a rest week, Brayden Iose shifts into blindside to replace an injured Devan Flanders. 

Cameron Roigard starts at halfback this week, with Aidan Morgan making his return to play at number 10 after sustaining a concussion in round 4 against the Waratahs.  

The 21-year-old will look to offset the absence of Brett Cameron, who limped off with a leg injury in Palmerston North on Sunday. 

“Great to have Aidan back after a head knock in the Waratahs game. We expect that he will slot in easily to run our game,” said Holland. 

On the bench, Harry Godfrey looks to add to what was an impressive outing on Sunday, and Peter Umaga-Jensen will have his first run of the season after shoulder reconstruction surgery.  

“Pete has worked hard to get back playing and we’re really happy to see him back on the field this weekend against the Highlanders. He’s in good nick and will cover 12 and 13 off the bench this weekend,” said Holland. 

The Hurricanes will return to Wellington next Saturday, 15 April at 7:05PM to take on the table-topping Chiefs in what will be another exciting derby match. The Hurricanes remain in second place, four points behind the Chiefs, who have six straight wins under their belt. 

Tickets are available at https://hurricanes.flicket.co.nz/  

Hurricanes named to take on the Highlanders: 
1 Xavier Numia 
2 Dane Coles  
3 Tyrel Lomax 
4 James Blackwell 
5 Isaia Walker-Leawere 
6 Brayden Iose 
7 Du’Plessis Kirifi 
8 Ardie Savea © 
9 Cameron Roigard 
10 Aidan Morgan 
11 Salesi Rayasi 
12 Jordie Barrett 
13 Billy Proctor 
14 Julian Savea 
15 Josh Moorby 

Reserves: 
16 Asafo Aumua 
17 Pouri Rakete-Stones 
18 Owen Franks 
19 TK Howden 
20 Peter Lakai 
21 Jamie Booth 
22 Harry Godfrey
23 Peter Umaga-Jensen 

Unavailable for selection: Ruben Love, Caleb Delany, Tyler Laubscher, Reed Prinsep, Justin Sangster, TJ Perenara, Jacob Devery, Devan Flanders, Brett Cameron.