The Hurricanes and Chiefs have confirmed their sides for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Grand Final.
Both teams have been forced into changes as they look to break their respective droughts, with the Hurricanes out for their first title since 2016.
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The hosts are boosted by the return of Devan Flanders, who has overcome a concussion to start in the back-row.
The only other change to the starting side comes in the second-row as Isaia Walker-Leawere partners Warner Dearns.
Jacob Devery and Brad Shields have been added to the bench, with a sold-out crowd at Hnry Stadium already confirmed after all tickets were snatched up inside 15 minutes.
"It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.
“We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We've got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about.
“It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season. That’s something we’re really grateful for. It’s a massive weekend, we’re hugely excited and can’t wait to get into it.”
Meanwhile, the Chiefs are looking to avoid four straight defeats in the Grand Final, losing former Waratah and nine-cap Wallaby Lalakai Foketi to a calf injury.
Centre Kyle Brown comes into the starting side to replace him, joining vice-captain Quinn Tupaea.
The other change comes at fullback, with Liam Coombes-Fabling shifting from the wing to replace Isaac Hutchinson (knee), paving the way for All Black Leroy Carter to start.
Reon Paul has been added to the bench, whilst number eight Wallace Sititi wasn't considered as he continues to be managed following a nasty concussion.
“You work hard to be given this opportunity and it is satisfying to be in this position, but we also know there is one more game to win," Chiefs coach Jono Gibbes said. “The Hurricanes have been the pace setters throughout the season and it will be a terrific challenge playing them at their home, but it is one we are looking forward to.
“Playing in front of a full house is always stimulating and we know there will be plenty of Chiefs supporters in the crowd, ringing their cowbells loudly.”
HURRICANES (1-15): Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Warner Dearns, Devan Flanders, Du'Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Fehi Fineanganofo, Jordie Barrett (co-c), Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Callum Harkin
Replacements: Jacob Devery, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Brad Shields, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo
CHIEFS (1-15): Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Sione Ahio, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa'i, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson (c), Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Kyren Taumoefolau, Quinn Tupaea, Kyle Brown, Leroy Carter, Liam Coombes-Fabling
Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, George Dyer, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Reon Paul
Referee: Nic Berry
Assistant Referees: Reuben Keane, Louis Trisley
TMO: Brett Cronan
