Hurricanes squad for preseason match against Moana Pasifika

February 15, 2024
613
Ultimate Rugby

After a 90-minute hit out under the roof in Dunedin, the Hurricanes now turn their attention to hosting Moana Pasifika, naming a strong side for their final preseason match at NZCIS on Friday, in Upper Hutt.

The match against the Highlanders last Saturday, where 38 Hurricanes players were used, has given Head Coach Clark Laidlaw and his coaching staff some food for thought heading into Friday’s match.

“Although we’re a little disappointed how we played against the Highlanders, it was great to get everyone here in preseason who was fit and healthy some live rugby. There were no serious injuries which is a bonus in preseason, and it has given us an opportunity to improve some areas we can take into the game against Moana Pasifika. So, we’re excited to see how we go on the back of our game last week.”

Thirty-five players will be available for this match, including Hurricanes centurion TJ Perenara.

After a lengthy stint on the sideline – 454 days to be exact – the first Hurricane to reach 150 caps, Perenara, has been pencilled in to start at halfback.

Laidlaw said Perenara has recovered well from his injury and has no doubt he will hit the ground running come Friday.

“TJ certainly hasn’t lost any of his edge. It’s been an exciting time for him, with his return from injury and the birth of his second child a couple of weeks ago. We’re looking forward to seeing him back out there and we know he will be raring to go when called upon.”

Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee echoed Laidlaw’s sentiments.

“TJ has been a fantastic Hurricane and he always leads by example. It has been incredible to see the work he has put in to get back to playing and representing the Hurricanes again.”

With the match set to become a historic moment, with NZCIS hosting a Super Rugby Pacific preseason match for the first time, Lee said there was a lot of excitement for Friday’s match, where a stand has also been assembled for the day.

“We’re excited to welcome our fans, our community and Moana Pasifika to NZCIS. Having been based here for 14 months now, it’ll be great to have a game out here and give back to NZCIS for their foresight in developing the facility.”

Thirty-five players have been named to take on Moana Pasifika, which will also see the return of All Blacks, Tyrel Lomax, and Jordie Barrett.
Isaia Walker-Leawere also starts at lock after being unavailable for the Highlanders match.

The match kicks-off at 2:30pm on the Number One field at NZCIS. Entry to the match is free and all the key match day information can be found here.

Hurricanes team to face Moana Pasifika