The Hurricanes have named an unchanged backline for their Super Rugby Pacific grand final against the Chiefs in Wellington.
In what is their first grand final since they won their inaugural title in the city 10 years ago, the Hurricanes will have an added advantage after being able to name Cam Roigard and Ruben Love in the halves, co-captain Jordie Barrett and centre Billy Proctor in the midfield, and Fehi Fineanganofo, Josh Moorby and Callum Harkin in the back three.
The Chiefs, meanwhile, have had to make two changes to their backs, with Lalakai Foketi and Isaac Hutchinson replaced by Kyle Brown at centre and Leroy Carter at wing respectively.
The Hurricanes have been further boosted by the return of blindside flanker Devan Flanders from concussion. Flanders will join co-captain Du'Plessis Kirifi and Peter Lakai among the loose forwards.
Tickets for Saturday's final at the Cake Tin were sold out in 15 minutes.
"It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.
“We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We've got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about.
“It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season. That’s something we’re really grateful for."
For Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbes, still without loose forward Wallace Sititi due to concussion, the team's final appearance reflected its hard work throughout the season. The Chiefs thrashed the Crusaders in their semifinal with the Hurricanes similarly dominant against the Blues in theirs.
The Chiefs, who last won a title in 2013, have been in the last four grand finals.
“You work hard to be given this opportunity and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win," Gibbes said.
“The Hurricanes have been the pace-setters throughout the season and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to.
“Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating and we know there will be plenty of Gallagher Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.”
Loose forward Simon Parker will celebrate his 50th game for the Chiefs.
Teams for the Super Rugby Pacific grand final at Hnry Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 7.05pm:
Hurricanes: 1. Xavier Numia, 2. Asafo Aumua, 3. Pasilio Tosi, 4. Isaia Walker-Leawere, 5. Warner Dearns, 6. Devan Flanders, 7. Du’Plessis Kirifi (co-captain), 8. Peter Lakai, 9. Cam Roigard, 10. Ruben Love, 11. Fehi Fineanganofo, 12. Jordie Barrett (co-captain), 13. Billy Proctor, 14. Josh Moorby, 15. Callum Harkin. Reserves: 16. Jacob Devery, 17. Siale Lauaki, 18. Tyrel Lomax, 19. Brad Shields, 20. Brayden Iose, 21. Ereatara Enari, 22. Jone Rova, 23. Kini Naholo.
Chiefs: 1. Ollie Norris, 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3. Sione Ahio, 4. Josh Lord, 5. Tupou Vaa’i (vc), 6. Samipeni Finau, 7. Luke Jacobson (c), 8. Simon Parker, 9. Cortez Ratima, 10. Damian McKenzie, 11. Kyren Taumoefolau, 12. Quinn Tupaea, 13. Kyle Brown, 14. Leroy Carter, 15. Liam Coombes-Fabling. Reserves: 16. Brodie McAlister, 17. Jared Proffit, 18. George Dyer, 19. Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 20. Kaylum Boshier, 21. Xavier Roe, 22. Josh Jacomb, 23. Reon Paul.
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