The Hurricanes have recalled winger Ma’a Nonu and prop John Schwalger to their starting line-up for the Super 14 round seven match against the Crusaders in Wellington.
Nonu missed the 33-15 win over the Brumbies two weeks ago as he sat out a one-match ban for a dangerous tackle while a back injury kept Schwalger out of the trip to Canberra.
The Hurricanes had a bye last weekend.
Nonu’s return sees Shannon Paku switched to the right wing with Hosea Gear dropping into the reserves, while Jacob Ellison drops out of the 22-man squad for Schwalger, with Tim Fairbrother getting the nod for the reserves.
Starting XV: 15. Cory Jane, 14. Ma’a Nonu, 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. Craig Clarke; 3. Neemia Tialata, 2. Andrew Hore, 1. John Schwalger.
Replacements: 16. Hikawera Elliot, 17. Tim Fairbrother, 18. Jeremy Thrush, 19. Scott Waldrom, 20. Alby Mathewson, 21. Tane Tu’ipulotu, 22. Hosea Gear.
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This team doesn’t have that LOOK about them that is needed to beat the Crusaders.