SATURDAY, APRIL 13tH, 2024 SKY STADIUM WELLINGTON NZ
In the pivotal match of the round, only a mere four-point gap separates the Chiefs and the Hurricanes in the standings. The Hurricanes, undefeated this season, have solidified themselves as the frontrunners. Despite the absence of Cam Roigard due to a knee injury sustained in their recent victory against the Highlanders, the Hurricanes have maintained their strength, with the renowned All Blacks player TJ Perenara stepping into the starting position.
Roigard, a 23-year-old talent, faces at least six months of recovery following his injury in the match against the Highlanders just two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, Perenara, aged 32 and also an All Black, marked his 60th Super Rugby try in the same game, leaving him only one shy of the record recently set by Moana Pasifika’s Julian Savea.
This weekend’s highly anticipated showdown between the Hurricanes, boasting six consecutive wins, and the Chiefs promises an intense battle. The Chiefs, fresh off a dominating 68-12 victory over Moana Pasifika, are primed for a clash of titans.
With Ruben Love, Jordie Barrett, and Brad Shields set to make significant contributions, the lineup remains unchanged. Brace yourself for an exhilarating encounter, as this match has all the makings of a nail-biting spectacle.
Hurricanes line-up
Ruben Love, Josh Morby, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Kini Naholo, Brett Cameron, TJ Perenara, Brayden Iose, Peter Lakai, Brad Shields, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Caleb Delany, Tyrel Lomax, Asafo Aumua, Xavier Numia
Reserves. James O’Reilly, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Pasilio Tosi, Justin Sangster, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Devan Flanders, Richard Judd, Peter Umaga-Jensen
Mean while after hammering Moana last week to make up for their shock loss to the Crusaders, the Chiefs have named one of their strongest line-ups with Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson and Samipeni Finau combining in the backrow and Damian McKenzie retaining his playmaking role with destructive Emoni Narawa on the wing and Anton Leinert-Brown in the centres.
All Black lock Tupou Vaa’i will make his 50th Super Rugby appearance in a powerful Chiefs forward pack.
Chiefs line-up
Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Daniel Rona, Anton Leinert-Brown, Etene Nanai Seturo, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Samipeni Finau, Tupou Vaa’I, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Reuben O’Neill, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Aidan Ross.
Reserves. Bradley Slater, Ollie Norris, George Dyer, Jimmy Tupou, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Ioane, Rameka Poihipi
Referee. James Doleman, Assistant Referees. Jono Bredin, Fraser Hannon, TMO. Chris Hart
PREDICTION.
This is a tough one to pick and both sides can win, but I am going with the visiting team, the Chiefs.
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