The Hurricanes have named midfielder Tim Bateman in their Super Rugby team to play the Crusaders in Christchurch at the AMI Stadium on Friday.
Bateman makes his return to the starting team to partner Conrad Smith after being side-lined with a knee injury for six weeks.
rugbyweek
Hurricanes assistant coach Alama Ieremia said Bateman’s experience would be an important addition to the team when they take on the Crusaders.
“His on-field leadership will certainly help the team this weekend. Tim’s worked hard at getting himself ready and he’s excited to be back in the line-up.”
Bateman slots into a backline that is largely unchanged from the Hurricanes encounter with the Highlanders last week, however, fullback Andre Taylor has claimed a spot in the starting 15.
Number 8, Blade Thomson, returns to the starting line-up following an injury spell last week, while lock James Broadhurst retains his position after a strong performance last week.
Cory Jane was unavailable for selection due to an ankle injury.
Hurricanes: 15 André Taylor, 14 Alapati Leiua, 13 Conrad Smith (Captain), 12 Tim Bateman, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 TJ Perenara, 8 Blade Thomson, 7 Jack Lam, 6 Faifili Levave, 5 James Broadhurst, 4 Jeremy Thrush, 3 Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 2 Dane Coles, 1 Ben Franks
Replacements: 16 Ash Dixon, 17 Chris Eves, 18 John Schwalger, 19 Mark Reddish, 20 Ardie Savea, 21 Billy Guyton, 22 Matt Proctor, 23 Marty Banks.