Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw says his side knows exactly what awaits them in Lautoka and insists the Hurricanes are fully aware of the challenge posed by the Fijian Drua’s formidable home record.
He expects a highly motivated Drua side to play in front of a passionate home crowd at Churchill Park.
Laidlaw says they understand the challenge they are entering, particularly considering the Drua’s strong record in Lautoka during daytime matches, which has sharpened the team’s preparation and focus ahead of Saturday’s clash.
The Hurricanes have named a reshuffled squad for the Round 3, making four changes to the starting XV and naming a potential debutant on the bench.
Fresh from a commanding 52-10 win over Moana Pasifika, the visitors have adjusted their lineup as they prepare for the conditions in the west.
Two of the changes are in the front row, where props Pouri Rakete-Stones and Tevita Mafileo join vice-captain Asafo Aumua.
The rest of the forward pack remains unchanged, with Hugo Plummer partnering Warner Dearns at lock, while the loose forward trio of Devan Flanders, Peter Lakai and Brayden Iose is retained.
In the backs, a new halves combination sees Cam Roigard promoted to the starting side alongside Callum Harkin, who moves from fullback to first five-eighth and makes his first start in the No.10 jersey for the Hurricanes.
Harkin impressed in the role last week after Brett Cameron suffered a first-half injury.
Josh Moorby shifts to fullback after scoring a hat-trick in the opening round, while Bailyn Sullivan starts on the right wing.
All Blacks midfielder Billy Proctor returns at centre alongside captain Jordie Barrett, with Fehi Fineanganofo named on the left wing.
Among the reserves, first five-eighth Lucas Cashmore is in line to make his Hurricanes debut after injury ruled him out last season. Walker-Leawere and Punivai are also set for their first appearances of the campaign after recovering from pre-season injuries.
Jacob Devery and Brad Shields remain on the bench, joined by Xavier Numia, Siale Lauaki and Ereatara Enari.
The Drua will host the Hurricanes at 3.35pm on Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Source: Hurricanes
Source: Hurricanes
