Powerful Hurricanes heading for Levin

The Hurricanes have named a powerful squad to face the Brumbies in their final Super 14 warm-up match in Levin on Friday.

The Hurricanes have named a powerful squad to face the Brumbies in their final Super 14 warm-up match in Levin on Friday.

Coach Colin Cooper had a fully fit squad of 28 to choose from – a good omen considering the opening round of the Super 14 is just a week away.

The most noticeable inclusion is that of Ma'a Nonu, who missed the first two warm-up games due to a thumb injury. He takes his place on a 13-man bench.

Rodney So'oialo, who leads the Hurricanes from No.8, is part of a daunting loose trio that also includes flanks Chris Masoe and Jerry Collins.

Jason Eaton will start at lock after making his comeback off the bench against the Chiefs last week.

The Hurricanes and Brumbies have played each other three times before in pre-season games.

Both sides have one win apiece, and there has been one draw, a 28-all stalemate in 2007.

The Hurricanes will be looking for a polished performance in their last outing before taking on the Waratahs in Sydney on February 16 in Round One of the Super 14.

Hurricanes: 15 Cory Jane,14 Hosea Gear,13 Conrad Smith, 12 Tamati Ellison,11 Shannon Paku, 10 Jimmy Gopperth,9 Piri Weepu,8 Rodney So'oialo (captain), 7 Chris Masoe, 6 Jerry Collins, 5 Jason Eaton, 4 Jeremy Thrush,3 Tim Fairbrother,2 Andrew Hore, 1 John Schwalger.
Replacements (from): Hikawera Elliot, Neemia Tialata, Bernie Upton, Michael Johnson, Alby Mathewson, Zac Guildford, Tane Tu'ipulotu, Jacob Ellison, Thomas Waldrom, Craig Clarke, Scott Waldr, Ma'a Nonu, Willie Ripia

Date: Friday 8 February.
Venue: Levin
Kick-off: 17.30 (06.30 GMT)
Referee: Kelvin Deaker
Touch judges: Brent Murray, local