Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw has announced a significant roster update ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season, welcoming nine fresh talents to the squad. Brett Cameron has been included but is on a prolonged rehabilitation journey due to an ACL injury. In light of this, Riley Hohepa returns to the Hurricanes after spending a season with the Crusaders, providing valuable experience to the team.
In addition to Hohepa, two locks from the South Island are joining the Hurricanes: Will Tucker from the Highlanders and Zach Gallagher from the Crusaders. Ere Enari is another exciting addition, transferring from Moana Pasifika after three seasons. The rookie lineup boasts promising newcomers including Tjay Clarke, Kade Banks, Arese Poliko, Fehi Fineanganofo, and Lucas Cashmore.
Despite these new signings, the team will feel the impact of losing notable players such as All Blacks Jordie Barrett and TJ Perenara. Although Barrett is expected to return after a season in Ireland, his absence provides an opportunity for upcoming talents like Riley Higgins to establish themselves in the midfield. Meanwhile, with the departure of Josh Moorby, newcomers Clarke and Banks have a chance to prove themselves in the back three.
The Hurricanes’ expanded roster for 2024 now 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.
The influx of new players, alongside the experiences of returning athletes, sets a promising stage for the team’s upcoming season. While challenges lie ahead, the opportunities for growth and development within the squad are plentiful.
This new phase could be a catalyst for a vibrant and competitive spirit within the Hurricanes, as these players adapt, collaborate, and strive towards shared goals. The excitement around fresh faces and potential breakthroughs has the fans anticipating a thrilling season.
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