Hurricanes confirm late change with star ruled out of Crusaders clash

The Hurricanes have been dealt a major blow ahead of their crunch clash with the Crusaders at Sky Stadium on Saturday, with Du’Plessis Kirifi set to miss the match due to injury.

Kirifi has been nothing short of sensational for the Hurricanes this season. The Wellington Lions captain is currently equal fifth for tackles made in Super Rugby Pacific with 156.

Looking to bounce back from last weekend’s loss to the Blues at Eden Park, the Hurricanes named their team to play the defending champions on Thursday.

To no surprise really, Kirifi was set to start at openside flanker once again in round 15 – and was set to compete as part of the formidable loose forward trio which includes Devan Flanders and Ardie Savea.

But, mere hours before kick-off in Wellington, the Hurricanes confirmed the late change to their side on social media.

“Due to an injury sustained by Du’Plessis Kirifi, he has been withdrawn from tonight’s match against the Crusaders at Sky Stadium,” the Hurricanes wrote on their Instagram.

“Ardie Savea will now shift to 7, and Brayden Iose moves from the bench to 8.

“TK Howden will provide impact from the bench.”

Hurricanes team to take on Crusaders – updated

1. Tevita Mafileo
2. Dane Coles
3. Tyrel Lomax
4. James Blackwell
5. Caleb Delany
6. Devan Flanders
7. Ardie Savea (c)
8. Brayden Iose
9. Cam Roigard
10. Brett Cameron
11. Kini Naholo
12. Jordie Barrett
13. Billy Proctor
14. Daniel Sinkinson
15. Josh Moorby

Replacements:

16. Jacob Devery
17. Pouri Rakete-Stones
18. Owen Franks
19. Justin Sangster
20. TK Howden
21. Jamie Booth
22. Ruben Love
23. Bailyn Sullivan