Coles starts for Hurricanes

Editor

Hurricanes captain Dane Coles has been declared fit to start in their Super Rugby final showdown against the Lions in Wellington on Saturday.

Hooker Coles was given right up until 30 minutes before kick-off to prove his fitness and he has done enough to take the starting jersey.

The All Black comes in for Ricky Riccitelli, who moves to the replacements bench, while Leni Apisai drops out of their matchday squad.

Hurricanes: 15 James Marshall, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Matt Proctor, 12 Willis Halaholo, 11 Jason Woodward, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 TJ Perenara, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Ardie Savea, 6 Brad Shields, 5 Michael Fatialofa, 4 Vaea Fifita, 3 Ben May, 2 Dane Coles (c), 1 Loni Uhila
Replacements: 16 Ricky Riccitelli, 17 Chris Eves, 18 Mike Kainga, 19 Mark Abbott, 20 Callum Gibbins, 21 Jamison Gibson-Park, 22 Vince Aso, 23 Julian Savea