The Hurricanes have welcomed back damaging centre Ngani Laumape into the starting line-up for their clash with the Melbourne Rebels.
Laumape replaces Peter Umaga-Jensen, with Salesi Rayasi dropping out of the side for Wes Goosen.
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“At the end of Super Rugby Aotearoa we made it clear to the squad that there will be opportunities for players to show what they can do and we are determined to create plenty of competition for positions as we work through the coming weeks,” coach Jason Holland said.
“That’s created some real excitement in our squad and that’s been matched by the opportunity to be back playing in front of our fans.”
Tyrel Lomax and Scott Scrafton return to the starting lineup whilst there is a new halves pairing with Jonathan Taumateine and Orbyn Leger elevated from the bench.
Flyhalf Ruben Love has avoided serious injury after being stretchered off the field, suffering only a concussion.
Meanwhile, the Rebels have confirmed the re-signing of flyer Andrew Kellaway for the rest of the season.
Kellaway returns from a stint with Japanese side NEC Green Rockets and comes straight into the starting side, forming a new-look backline.
Teenage sensation Carter Gordon has been handed his first start at flyhalf, with captain Matt To'ouma shifting to inside centre.
He is joined in the starting side by English loanee George Worth, who slots in at fullback.
Number eight Isi Naisarani returns to the side, pushing Michael Wells into flanker alongside Michael Wells.
HURRICANES (1-15): Xavier Numia, Dane Coles (c), Tyrel Lomax, James Blackwell, Scott Scrafton, Reed Prinsep, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Devan Flanders, Jonathan Taumateine, Orbyn Leger, Wes Goosen, Ngani Laumape, Billy Proctor, Julian Savea, Jordie Barrett
Reserves: Asafo Aumua, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Alex Fidow, Liam Mitchell, Brayden Iose, Gareth Evans, Cam Roigard, Lolagi Visinia
INs: Wes Goosen, Ngani Laumape, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Gareth Evans, Cam Roigard, Lolagi Visinia, Scott Scrafton
OUTs: Isaia Walker-Leawere, Luke Campbell, Ruben Love, Salesi Rayasi, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Tevita Mafileo, Pepesana Patafilo
REBELS (1-15): Cameron Orr, Jordan Uelese, Cabous Eloff, Rob Leota, Trevor Hosea, Michael Wells, Josh Kemeny, Isi Naisarani, Joe Powell, Carter Gordon, Marika Koroibete, Matt To’ouma ©, Campbell Magnay, Andrew Kellaway, George Worth
Reserves: James Hanson, Matt Gibbon, Lucio Sordoni, Ross Haylett-Petty, Richard Hardwick, James Tuttle, Stacey Ili, Frank Lomani
INs: Andrew Kellaway, Isi Naisarani, George Worth, Trevor Hosea
OUTs: Lachie Anderson, Steve Cummins, Tom Pincus, Michael Icely
