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Home , 2016 Mitre 10 Cup, Ardie Savea, Beauden Barrett, Ben Lam, Ben May (rugby union), Blade Thomson

2017 SQUAD GUIDE

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SQUAD GUIDE | 1 LTD

Level 2 191 Thorndon Quay Pipitea, , 6011

Postal Address

Hurricanes Ltd PO Box 7201 Wellington South New Zealand

General Enquiries

Phone: +64 4 389 0020 Fax: +64 4 389 0889 Email: [email protected] www.hurricanes.co.nz facebook.com/hurricanesrugby twitter.com/hurricanesrugby instagram: hurricanesrugby

Squad/player information is current as at 31 October 2016 THE 2017 HURRICANES

FORWARDS BACKS COACHES & MANAGEMENT

PROPS HALFBACKS HEAD COACH Kylem O’Donnell Reg Goodes TJ Perenara Mike Kainga ASSISTANT COACHES Jeff To’omaga-Allen FIRST FIVE-EIGHTHS Jason Holland Loni Uhila Daniel Cron Richard Watt HOOKERS Leni Apisai MIDFIELD BACKS TEAM MANAGER Tony Ward STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH LOCKS David Gray Mark Abott David Wildash James Broadhurst Geoff Cridge TEAM DOCTOR OUTSIDE BACKS Theo Dorfling PHYSIOS LOOSE FORWARDS Nehe Milner-Skudder Cam Shaw Leevan Santos Callum Gibbins Peter Umaga-Jensen Toa Halafihi ANALYST Jayson Ross Hugh Renton BAGGAGE MAN/MASSEUR Paul Minehan HIGH PERFORMANCE MANAGER Chris Stirling

MEDIA MANAGER Toby Robson

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 3 CHRIS BOYD JOHN PLUMTREE

CHRIS BOYD POSITION: HEAD COACH Boyd will be forever remembered as the first head coach to lead the Hurricanes to an Investec Super Rugby title after winning the trophy in his second year at the helm. Boyd’s coaching journey began with the first coaching role was as coach of Tawa Rugby Club, where he spent nine years from 1989 to 1998. He then took over as Wellington’s second XV coach before becoming assistant coach of the Wellington Lions in 2003. From 2006 to 2008 he was assistant coach to John Plumtree at the Super Rugby club in South Africa. He has since worked at the International Rugby Academy of New Zealand as a coaching services advisor, and was defensive coach of ’s national team at 2011. Boyd was also appointed as the Wellington Lions head coach in 2011, and took up the same role with New Zealand Under 20 a year later. As Hurricanes head coach he has taken the team to back to back Super Rugby finals.

JOHN PLUMTREE POSITION: ASSISTANT COACH Plumtree joined the Hurricanes in 2015, but is no stranger to Super Rugby or Wellington. He was both assistant and head coach of the Durban-based Sharks Super Rugby team between 2008-2012 before a stint as the Irish national team’s forwards coach in the build up to the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Plumtree was the Wellington Lions head coach from 2001-2006, taking them to the finals in 2003, 2004 and 2006. Born in he had a successful playing career as a flanker, with 40 caps for his home province before shifting to South Africa where he played 80 matches for the Natal Sharks from 1988 to 1997, winning two medals in 1990 and 1996. Widely credited as being a master of defence, he brings an array of skills to the Hurricanes coaching set up.

4 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE CHRIS EVES REGGIE GOODES POSITION: Prop POSITION: Loosehead prop PHYSICAL: 1.87m | 117kg PHYSICAL: 1.84m | 112kg DATE OF BIRTH: 11.12.87 DATE OF BIRTH: 04.04.92 in Whitbank, South Africa

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 45 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 60 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 35 (7t) SUPER DEBUT: 2014 v Sharks in Durban SUPER DEBUT: 2012 v in Hamilton

PROVINCE: Manawatu PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 30 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 45 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Tasman in Wellington

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: - TEST DEBUT: -

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Chris was a very valuable part of the squad last Had an outstanding season despite some injury year, particularly in an impact role where he disruptions last year and continued that form for added his power and pace during the backend of the Wellington Lions. No doubt he will continue to our matches. A very capable front row forward. play at the same high level in 2017.

BEN MAY JEFFREY TOOMAGA-ALLEN POSITION: Prop POSITION: Tighthead prop PHYSICAL: 1.93m | 119kg PHYSICAL: 1.92m | 125kg DATE OF BIRTH: 13.10.82 DATE OF BIRTH: 19.11.90 in Wellington

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 83 SUPER GAMES: 56 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER POINTS: 15 (3t) SUPER DEBUT: 2007 v Reds (for the ) in SUPER DEBUT: 2012 v in Cape Town PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCIAL CAPS: 30 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 85 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 30 (6t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Manawatu in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2004 v Thames Valley (Nelson Bays) in Nelson TEST CAPS: 1 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: 2013 v Japan in TEST DEBUT: - THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Another to miss the Mitre 10 Cup season through A very experienced prop who can play both sides injury, Jeff can’t wait to get back out on the field. of the scrum and a great team man. Will be part No doubt he will have his sights set on plenty of of a very competitive group of props battling for game time in 2017. Jeff’s enthusiasm always adds consistent game time. a positive to our set-up.

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 5 MIKE KAINGA LONI UHILA POSITION: Prop POSITION: Prop PHYSICAL: 1.87m, 117kg PHYSICAL: 1.81m | 125kg DATE OF BIRTH: 28.1.91 DATE OF BIRTH: 07.04.89

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 3: SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 15 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Sharks in Wellington SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v in

PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCE: Waikato PROVINCIAL CAPS: 27 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 20 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Taranaki (Bay of Plenty) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Counties Manukau in in Mt Maunganui Pukekohe

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: -

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Mike came into the squad late last year as a The Tongan Bear was a pleasure to coach and replacement player and once again showed he’s watch in 2016. Loni always brings a fantastic very capable at Super Rugby level. He’s a popular attitude and he made every post a winner in his member of the squad and we’re looking forward to first year of Super Rugby. His second season should having him back in 2017. be just as fun to watch.

LENI APISAI DANE COLES POSITION: Hooker POSITION: Hooker PHYSICAL: 1.81m, 106kg PHYSICAL: 1.84m | 109kg DATE OF BIRTH: 8.3.96 DATE OF BIRTH: 10.12.86 in Wellington

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 5 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 94 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 70 (14t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Brumbies in Canberra SUPER DEBUT: 2009 v Waratahs in Wellington

PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL GAMES: 66 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 24 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 85 (17t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2007 v in Wellington PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Waikato in Wellington

TEST CAPS: 35 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 25 (5t) TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: 2012 v Scotland in TEST DEBUT: -

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Colesy is a massively important part of our set-up. Leni grew immensely as a leader and a player in He plays the game at an incredibly high level and 2016. He captained the New Zealand Under 20s as our leader sets the standard for everything we team, made his Super Rugby debut, played a full do. He was huge for us in 2016 and will be again in provincial season with Wellington and toured with 2017. the Maori All Blacks. A mature player for his age, we look forward to watching him grow further this year.

6 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE RICKY RICCITELLI POSITION: Hooker POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 1.75m, 110kg PHYSICAL: 1.97m | 116kg DATE OF BIRTH: 3.2.95 DATE OF BIRTH: 20.02.90 in Christchurch

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 9 SUPER GAMES: 31 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Brumbies in Canberra SUPER DEBUT: 2014 v Sharks in Durban

PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCIAL CAPS: 18 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 46 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Horowhenua Kapiti in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v North Otago (for Napier Canterbury) in Christchurch

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: -

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Ricky made every post a winner during his first Mark made a big contribution to the Hurricanes in season of Super Rugby. Very strong both with ball 2016 where he was particularly strong through the in hand and at set piece, and gets around the very first half the season. A rugged, mobile, reliable and well too. skilful lock, he will again be an important part of our squad in 2017.

JAMES BROADHURST GEOFFREY CRIDGE POSITION: Lock POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 2.01m | 122kg PHYSICAL: 2.00m, 114kg DATE OF BIRTH: 01.12.87 in Kaitaia DATE OF BIRTH: 6.2.95

SUPER GAMES: 71 SUPER GAMES: 1 SUPER POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER POINTS: 0 SUPER DEBUT: 2010 v Force in Wellington SUPER DEBUT: 2016 v Kings in Wellington

2015 PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCIAL GAMES: 74 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 11 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 10 (2t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2007 v Otago (for Canterbury) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Northland in Whangarei in TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 1 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: - TEST DEBUT: 2015 v South Africa in THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... He’s had a tough couple of season with injury, but Broady had a difficult 2016 as he dealt with a long shook off those issues during the back half of Super recovery from concussion. He’s a quality player Rugby and really started to hit his straps during the and we’re all looking forward to welcoming him Mitre 10 Cup. A big, strong, mobile lock, we look back whenever he’s ready to return to play. forward to him playing a bigger role in 2017.

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 7 MICHAEL FATIALOFA SAM LOUSI POSITION: Lock POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 1.98m, 113kg PHYSICAL: 1.99m, 128kg DATE OF BIRTH: 14.9.92 DATE OF BIRTH: 20.7.91

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 15 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 14 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Force in Palmerston SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Reds (Waratahs) in North

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 55 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 10 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Auckland (Southland) in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier Auckland TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Sam’s back ground is , but we think Fats was probably the find of the season in 2016. is only just scratching the surface of his potential He saw an opportunity in his first year of Super in . He was outstanding for Wellington Rugby and took it with both hands. I’m sure he’ll be during the Mitre 10 Cup and we’re looking forward looking to build on that in 2017. to helping him continues his development.

CALLUM GIBBINS VAEA FIFITA POSITION: Loose forward POSITION: Loose forward/ Lock PHYSICAL: 1.86m, 102kg PHYSICAL: 1.96m | 107kg DATE OF BIRTH: 14.9.88 DATE OF BIRTH: 17.06.92

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 26 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 20 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 15 (3t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 15 (3t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Lions in Johannesburg SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v in Auckland

PROVINCE: Manawatu PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 66 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 28 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 100 (20t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 50 (10t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2009 v Wellington in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v North Harbour in Wellington Wellington

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: -

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Led the team’s boy band brilliantly, but it was We all know how athletically gifted Vaea is and his selflessness and complete commitment to the we’ve seen plenty of that over the past two team that stood out in 2016. With him and Ardie years. His call up to the All Blacks confirmed Savea in our squad we are spoilt for choice when it what we already knew about his potential and his comes to our opensides. continuing development will be exciting to watch.

8 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE TOA HALAFIHI REED PRINSEP POSITION: Number Eight POSITION: Loose forward PHYSICAL: 1.84m, 102kg PHYSICAL: 1.92m, 108kg DATE OF BIRTH: 27.11.93 DATE OF BIRTH: 17.2.93

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 1 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Chiefs (Crusaders) in Christchurch PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL CAPS: 24 PROVINCE: Canterbury PROVINCIAL POINTS: 40 (8t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 24 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Hawke’s Bay at Napier PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 (2t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v North Harbour in Albany TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: - THE HURRICANES SAY... A powerful and versatile loose forward with a great THE HURRICANES SAY... skill set. With a couple of solid provincial seasons A versatile and athletic loose forward who can behind him Toa has developed his game well and carry the ball well and has a big work rate in looks ready for the next step in his career. defence. We’re excited about having Reed join the club.

HUGH RENTON ARDIE SAVEA POSITION: Loose forward POSITION: Loose forward PHYSICAL: 1.89m, 104kg PHYSICAL: 1.88m, 100kg DATE OF BIRTH: 12.5.96 DATE OF BIRTH: 14.10.93 in Wellington

SUPER GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 49 SUPER POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 50 (10t) SUPER DEBUT: - SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Waratahs in Wellington PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCIAL CAPS: 4 PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 31 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Wellington in Napier PROVINCIAL POINTS: 85 (17t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Manawatu in Palmerston North TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: - TEST CAPS: 9 TEST POINTS: 10 (2t) THE HURRICANES SAY... TEST DEBUT: 2016 v Wales in Auckland A young man with a highly promising future. Hugh was hit with injury in 2015, so will be looking to THE HURRICANES SAY... get out on the park and make use of the hard work Showed off his full array of skills in 2016 and was he’s been doing off the field for the past year. rewarded with his test debut. The scary thing is Ardie is still getting better.

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 9 BRAD SHIELDS BLADE THOMSON POSITION: Loose forward POSITION: Loose forward PHYSICAL: 1.93m, 111kg PHYSICAL: 1.98m, 106kg DATE OF BIRTH: 2.4.91 in Masterton DATE OF BIRTH: 4.12.90 in Gisborne

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 69 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 37 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 40 (8t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 35 (7t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Stormers in Cape SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Crusaders in Town Christchurch

PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL CAPS: 51 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 47 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 60 (12t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Hawke’s Bay in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Manawatu in New Wellington Plymouth

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Named as Wellington’s player of the year Brad Blade will be raring to go after missing the Mitre 10 plays with a level of consistency that few players Cup season through injury. He continues to add new can achieve. No doubt he will be looking to go up strings to his bow and whether lock or loose forward another gear in 2017. is capable of big things.

KYLEM O’DONNELL TJ PERENARA POSITION: Halfback POSITION: Halfback PHYSICAL: 1.79m, 91kg PHYSICAL: 1.84m, 94kg DATE OF BIRTH: 1.8.89 DATE OF BIRTH: 23.1.92 in Porirua

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 79 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 185 (37t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Stormers in Cape Town PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL CAPS: 33 PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 15 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2009 v Counties Manukau in PROVINCIAL POINTS: 10 (2t) Pukekohe PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Southland in

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 26 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 30 (6t) TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2014 v in Auckland

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Kylem impressed us during the Mitre 10 Cup. He’s TJ will be full of confidence after a big year that saw very competitive and has a good all-around skill him take his Super Rugby form into the All Blacks. set. No doubt he’ll be out to make a mark at the We all know how hard he works and it’s great to Hurricanes. see him at the top of his game. His leadership and organisation will be key to our backline.

10 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE TE TOIROA TAHUIORANGI BEAUDEN BARRETT POSITION: Halfback POSITION: First five-eighth PHYSICAL: 1.74m, 85kg PHYSICAL: 1.87m, 91kg DATE OF BIRTH: 31.3.95 DATE OF BIRTH: 27.5.91 in

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 1 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 82 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 938 (21t, 163c, 168p, 1d) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Kings in Port Elizabeth SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2011 v in Bloemfontein PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL CAPS: 21 PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL POINTS: 10 (2t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 26 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Wellington in New PROVINCIAL POINTS: 191 (5t, 26c, 38p) Plymouth PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Northland in New Plymouth TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 46 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: 263 (16t, 57c, 23p) TEST DEBUT: 2012 v Ireland in Hamilton

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Limited opportunities in 2016, but has all the core Beaudy took his game to another level in 2016 and skills to be a top halfback in Super Rugby when the was a big part of the team’s success. We’ve seen opportunity arises. him take that form forward into the All Blacks and we’re excited about what he will bring to our game in 2017.

OTERE BLACK PITA AHKI POSITION: First five-eighth POSITION: Midfield back PHYSICAL: 1.84m, 86kg PHYSICAL: 1.89m, 96kg DATE OF BIRTH: 4.5.95P DATE OF BIRTH: 24.9.92

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 7 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 13 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 38 (1t, 9c, 5p) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Rebels in Wellington SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2014 v in Pretoria

ROVINCE: Manawatu PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCIAL CAPS: 31 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 37 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 281 (1t, 72c, 44p) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 35 (7t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Auckland in Palmerston PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Manawatu in North Palmerston North

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Otere continues to develop his game as a first five Pita played a limited role in 2016 after being to the highest standards and is a major asset to selected in the New Zealand men’s Olympic sevens the club. I’m confident he will again make every squad to travel to Brazil. A multi-talented midfield post a winner this season. back with pace and power on attack, the former New Zealand U20s representative will be keen to make his mark in 2017. HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 11 JORDIE BARRETT WES GOOSEN POSITION: Midfield back POSITION: Midfield back PHYSICAL: 1.95m, 96kg PHYSICAL: 1.79m, 92kg DATE OF BIRTH: 15.2.97 DATE OF BIRTH: 20.10.95

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 2 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Reds in Wellington

PROVINCE: Canterbury PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 12 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 21 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 123 (5t, 22c, 18p) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 35 (7t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Waikato in Wellington Auckland in Christchurch TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE HURRICANES SAY... Jordie is coming off a great year where he Wes proved he was ready for Super Rugby last year showed his class with the New Zealand Under 20s with a try on debut. He’s quick, strong, composed and and we’re looking forward to helping him and versatile, which makes him a great asset to transfer that into Super Rugby and further develop the squad. his game in 2017.

NGANI LAUMAPE MATT PROCTOR POSITION: Midfield back POSITION: Midfield back PHYSICAL: 1.77m, 103kg PHYSICAL: 1.80m, 93kg DATE OF BIRTH: 22.4.93 DATE OF BIRTH: 26.10.92 in Wellington

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 11 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 36 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 20 (4t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 30 (6t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Brumbies in Canberra SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Stormers in Palmerston North PROVINCE: Manawatu PROVINCIAL CAPS: 10 PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL POINTS: 35 (7t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 43 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Northland in Whangarei PROVINCIAL POINTS: 50 (10t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Manawatu in Palmerston North TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A THE HURRICANES SAY... TEST DEBUT: N/A Ngani’s first year of Super Rugby presented some challenges as he battled a niggly injury and THE HURRICANES SAY... reintegrated to rugby union after so long in league, Matt started to nail the role of centre in 2016 but he still managed to make his presence felt. He and was rewarded with selection in the Maori All continued his development with Manawatu and it’ll Blacks. He’s become a real leader and one of the be exciting to see him put those improvements on rocks in our backline. the field in 2017.

12 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE VINCE ASO CORY JANE POSITION: Wing POSITION: Wing PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 98kg PHYSICAL: 1.83m: 89kg DATE OF BIRTH: 5.1.95 DATE OF BIRTH: 8.2.83 in

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 16 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 111 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 150 (30t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Brumbies in Canberra SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2007 v Reds in Brisbane

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 28 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 74 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 40 (8t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 176 (33t, 4c, 1p) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v North Harbour in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2003 v Otago in Wellington Auckland TEST CAPS: 52 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 85 (17t) TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2008 v Australia in Hong Kong TEST DEBUT: N/A THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Cory’s understanding of the game was valuable In his second year of Super Rugby Vince continued to the team in the run to the title and he will to develop his game and fought hard for a starting again bring that knowledge and experience to the spot in a highly competitive midfield group. No squad. He’ll be refreshed and ready to go after an doubt he will again play a big part in our backline off season in Japan and no doubt have a bunch of this season. entertaining stories to tell.

BEN LAM NEHE MILNER-SKUDDER POSITION: Wing POSITION: Fullback PHYSICAL: 1.94m, 105kg PHYSICAL: 1.80m, 90kg DATE OF BIRTH: 9.6.91 DATE OF BIRTH: 15.12.90

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 6 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 15: SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 20 (4t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Stormers in Cape SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Force in Town PROVINCE: Manawatu PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 35 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 30 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 30 (6t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 50 (10t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Hawke’s Bay in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Canterbury in Palmerston North Christchurch TEST CAPS: 7 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 35 (7t) TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2015 v Australia in Sydney TEST DEBUT: N/A THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Coming off the disappointment of having his Ben’s a big, strong, fast wing who is very good at Super Rugby season scuppered in week one with finding the try line. He’ll add an exciting element a shoulder injury, Nehe is hungrier and fitter than to our outside backs mix. ever heading into the 2017 season. We all know how dangerous he is when he’s fit and firing.

HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 13 JULIAN SAVEA PETER UMAGA-JENSEN POSITION: Wing POSITION: Fullback PHYSICAL: 1.92m, 108kg PHYSICAL: 1.85m, 102kg DATE OF BIRTH: 78.1.90 in Wellington DATE OF BIRTH: 31.12.97

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 88 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 195 (39t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2011 v Highlanders in SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A Wellington PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCE: Wellington PROVINCIAL CAPS: 8 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 22 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 40 (8t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Tasman in Wellington TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 49 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 225 (45t) TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2012 v Ireland in Auckland THE HURRICANES SAY... THE HURRICANES SAY... Still only 19 heading into his first year of Super Struggled for consistency last year, but we saw in Rugby, Peter has a huge future. A big, fast back the All Blacks that he remains as devastating as capable of playing in the midfield or the outside ever. He’ll be looking for consistency throughout backs. He’s got plenty of development ahead of the 2017 Super Rugby season. him.

Photos: Getty Images 14 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE HURRICANES IN 2016 FINISHED 1ST OVERALL AFTER ROUND ROBIN P W D L B PF PA PD B3T B7 PTS 15 11 - 4 2 458 314 144 7 2 53

PLAYOFFS Quarterfinal: Hurricanes 41 Sharks 0, Saturday 23 July at Westpac Stadium, Wellington Semifinal: Hurricanes 25 Chiefs 9, Saturday 30 July at Westpac Stadium, Wellington Final: Hurricanes 20 Lions 3, Saturday 6 August at Westpac Stadium, Wellington

Photos: Getty Images HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 15 16 | HURRICANES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE