The Hurricanes have received a major boost ahead of tomorrow's Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final against the Chiefs, with several key players returning as they chase their first title in a decade.
In their first grand final appearance since winning their inaugural championship 10 years ago, the Hurricanes have been able to name a near full-strength side, including Cam Roigard and Ruben Love in the halves, co-captain Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor in midfield, and Fehi Fineanganofo, Josh Moorby and Callum Harkin in the back three.
The Wellington-based side has also welcomed back blindside flanker Devan Flanders, who returns from concussion to join co-captain Du'Plessis Kirifi and Peter Lakai in the loose forward trio.
The Chiefs, meanwhile, have been forced into two changes in the backline, with Lalakai Foketi and Isaac Hutchinson making way for Kyle Brown at centre and Leroy Carter on the wing.
Saturday's final at Sky Stadium, commonly known as the Cake Tin, will be played before a capacity crowd after tickets sold out in just 15 minutes.
Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw says the occasion was one the team had been building towards all season.
Laidlaw says the return of Flanders and the ability to field a settled side at such a crucial stage of the season was a significant advantage.
The Chiefs head into the decider after a dominant semi-final victory over the Crusaders, while the Hurricanes comfortably accounted for the Blues to secure hosting rights for the final.
Despite missing influential loose forward Wallace Sititi through concussion, Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbes said his side had earned the opportunity to compete for the title through consistent performances throughout the season.
The Chiefs are chasing their first Super Rugby title since 2013 and are appearing in their fourth grand final in as many seasons.
The final will also mark a personal milestone for Chiefs loose forward Simon Parker, who is set to make his 50th appearance for the club.
The Chiefs will face the Hurricanes at 7.05pm tomorrow.
Source: 1 News
