Hurricanes Bolster Backline with Perenara and Love for Rebels Clash
Christchurch, New Zealand – March 15, 2024
The Wellington-based Hurricanes have received a major boost ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific quarter-final against the Melbourne Rebels, with star players TJ Perenara and Ruben Love both named in the starting lineup.
The dynamic duo headlines a potent Hurricanes backline, which also features the in-form winger Salesi Rayasi, who has earned his starting spot over Kini Naholo. Rayasi’s impressive recent performances have secured him the left wing position, showcasing the depth in the Hurricanes’ attacking arsenal.
Elsewhere, the selection panel has opted to retain Devan Flanders as the starting blindside flanker, relegating experienced campaigner Brad Shields to an impact role off the bench.
In the front row, the Hurricanes will rely on the powerful trio of Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, and Pasilio Tosi. Aumua, who recently returned from injury, demonstrated no signs of rustiness in his previous outing, a fact that has pleased head coach Clark Laidlaw.
“Asafo was extremely diligent in his rehab and that allowed him to get back out on the park for 40 minutes, which was pleasing for him and us,” Laidlaw said.
The Hurricanes enter the quarter-final as the top-seeded team, having secured their position in a dramatic final weekend of results. Laidlaw is confident that the vocal home support will provide the team with an additional boost as they look to advance in the competition.
“The crowd was immense and has been building all season. How good is afternoon rugby – we’re keen to see a big crowd on Saturday to bring that extra energy,” Laidlaw stated.
The Hurricanes will be wary of the Rebels’ potent backline, which Laidlaw has described as a “real threat” with numerous ball carriers across the field. This quarter-final clash promises to be an exciting affair between two teams determined to keep their Super Rugby Pacific aspirations alive.
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