Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw has made significant changes to the team’s lineup by bringing in nine new players for the upcoming season. Brett Cameron is among the additions; however, he will be undergoing extensive rehabilitation due to an ACL injury. The Hurricanes welcome back Riley Hohepa, who returns after a season with the Crusaders. In addition, South Island locks Will Tucker from the Highlanders and Zach Gallagher from the Crusaders are making the move north to join the squad.
Ere Enari, who previously played for Moana Pasifika for three seasons, is another new face on the team. The Hurricanes are also introducing several rookies, namely Tjay Clarke, Kade Banks, Arese Poliko, Fehi Fineanganofo, and Lucas Cashmore.
Laidlaw faces the challenge of filling leadership roles, especially following the departures of notable All Blacks players Jordie Barrett and TJ Perenara. While Barrett will be returning after a season in Ireland, his absence opens the door for rising star Riley Higgins to claim a starting spot in the midfield. Furthermore, with Josh Moorby leaving the team, new recruits Clarke and Banks are now positioned to establish themselves in the back three.
The Hurricanes’ 2024 squad includes:
Tom Allen, Asafo Aumua, Kade Banks, Brett Cameron, Lucas Cashmore, Tjay Clarke, Caleb Delany, Jacob Devery, Ereatara Enari, Fehi Fineanganofo, Devan Flanders, Zach Gallagher, Harry Godfrey, Riley Higgins, Riley Hohepa, Brayden Iose, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Peter Lakai, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Ruben Love, Tevita Mafileo, Kini Naholo, Xavier Numia, Arese Poliko, Billy Proctor, Ngatungane Punivai, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Cam Roigard, Brad Shields, Daniel Sinkinson, Bailyn Sullivan, Josh Taula, Pasilio Tosi, Will Tucker, Raymond Tuputupu, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Jordi Viljoen, Isaia Walker-Leawere.
This transformation opens a new chapter for the Hurricanes, providing an opportunity for emerging talent to thrive and for the team to build a strong foundation for future success. With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, fans can look forward to an exciting season of rugby ahead.
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