Hurricanes Primed for Colossal Chiefs Clash in Wellington Semifinal
Wellington, New Zealand – March 30, 2024: The Hurricanes have finalized their 23-man squad for the highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific semifinal showdown against the Chiefs at Sky Stadium in Wellington.
The return of All Black prop Tyrel Lomax headlines the squad announcement, as the Hurricanes aim to overcome the absence of the injured Xavier Numia. Coach Clark Laidlaw has opted for the experienced Brad Shields over young gun Devan Flanders, while the versatile Ruben Love also makes a welcome comeback.
Laidlaw has again chosen a 6-2 bench split, with flanker Du’Plessis Kirifi set to provide impact off the pine. The coach is well aware of the physical challenge that lies ahead, having seen his side tested by the Rebels in the quarterfinals.
“The Chiefs will provide another tough challenge for us, and one we are really excited for,” Laidlaw stated. “The energy that our fans bring to Our House gives the team that extra push, and we can feel the energy when we’re out there, representing you.”
With a crowd of 25,000 expected to pack the stadium, Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee is urging supporters to arrive early and soak up the vibrant pre-match atmosphere.
“Saturday is going to be awesome. We will have a great crowd and an awesome game of rugby against the Chiefs.”
The Hurricanes will be led by captain Brad Shields as they seek to book their spot in the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific final, with the team determined to put on a performance worthy of their passionate fan base.
Hurricanes Team to Face the Chiefs:
- Pouri-Rakete-Stones
- Asafo Aumua
- Tyrel Lomax
- Justin Sangster
- Isaia Walker-Leawere
- Brad Shields (c)
- Peter Lakai
- Brayden Iose
- TJ Perenara
- Brett Cameron
- Salesi Rayasi
- Jordie Barrett
- Billy Proctor
- Josh Moorby
- Ruben Love
Reserves:
- James O’Reilly
- Tevita Mafileo
- Pasilio Tosi
- James Tucker
- Devan Flanders
- Du’Plessis Kirifi
- Richard Judd
- Bailyn Sullivan
Unavailable: Caleb Delany, Ben Grant, Xavier Numia, Cam Roigard
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