The Hurricanes and Blues will meet in a Super Rugby playoff for the first time ever this weekend, remarkably, it has taken 30 years for these two franchises to finally clash in the postseason.
For the Hurricanes, the squad is relatively settled, with Lauaki, Fineanganofo and Flanders all expected to return from injury and concussion protocols. That creates some difficult selection decisions after Friday's impressive performance against the Brumbies. Punivai and Rakete-Stones are the most likely players to make way, but beyond that the coaches face a genuine dilemma. If the Hurricanes opt for a 6–2 bench split, Rova could miss out. If they go with a 5–3 split, one of Shields or Iose may be unlucky to be omitted despite both turning in strong performances.
The Blues have their own selection headaches. Malachi appears almost certain to receive a suspension following his shot on Lester, while Sam Nock has already been ruled out for the remainder of the season. There are also rumours that Dalton could make an earlier-than-expected return, and the Blues may yet regain the services of Beauden Barrett, who knows exactly what the Cake Tin can dish up on a miserable Welly night.
Long range forecast is for a stunner of a night but slightly on the cool side. Let's hope Wellington fill the stadium, I've already got my tickets after attending the quarter.
Bring it on Blues fans.
