All Blacks Dominance in the Hurricanes’ Lineup
The Hurricanes have assembled a robust squad for the upcoming 2027 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season, with a strong representation of All Blacks. Among the forwards are notable names like Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Xavier Numia, and Pasilio Tosi, complemented by hooker Asafo Aumua.
Strengthening the Backline
In the backline, the return of halfback Cam Roigard bolsters the squad, alongside first-fives Brett Cameron and Ruben Love. The midfield sees stars like Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor, while wingers Fehi Fineanganofo and Josh Moorby add invaluable international experience.
Strategic Recruitment Process
Head coach Clark Laidlaw emphasized the strategic approach in recruitment, aiming to refine both experienced and emerging talent. He stated, “Over the past ten months, we’ve been diligent, especially since early this year when we anticipated several player departures. Our efforts spanned the NPC and began back in January as we assessed areas needing reinforcement.”
New Faces Join the Ranks
Joining the Hurricanes lineup are important new recruits, such as Bryn Hall, a six-time Super Rugby champion, who will be working with Roigard and Jordi Viljoen in the halfback division. Former Highlanders prop Rohan Wingham and Hawke’s Bay lock Hunter Morrison are set to enhance the forward pack. Additionally, prop Tito Tuipulotu and lock Alefosio Aho, both of whom played with Tupou Ta’eiloa at Moana Pasifika last season, have been signed.
Debut Contracts for Promising Players
For Waikato lock Dylan Eti and Bay of Plenty midfielder Tāmiro Armstrong, this season marks their first full Super Rugby Pacific contracts after spending last season with the Chiefs’ Wider Training Group. Utility back Heremaia Murray, who has previous experience with the Crusaders and Queensland Reds, will step in as cover for Ngane Punivai, who is sidelined for the entire 2027 season due to an Achilles rupture.
Promotion from Within
Moreover, forward Josh Gray has been promoted from the Hurricanes’ Wider Training Group after making a commendable debut in the 2026 Super Round. Laidlaw expressed confidence in the newly formed squad, stating, “The balance we've achieved in our primary squad puts us in a strong position to build on our championship season. We can continue to play and prepare with a mix of experience while keeping an eye toward future growth.”
Looking Ahead
The Hurricanes are set to announce their Wider Training Group on Thursday, with players not included in the current All Blacks squad expected to report for pre-season training on November 26.