The Hurricanes will be guaranteed a top-two finish in Super Rugby Pacific, defeating the Highlanders in a blustery Wellington.
Winning 41-14, the bonus point victory sees the Canes end the Brumbies’ hopes of a surprise top-of-the-table finish, and sees a return to the top of the ladder – but it could only last a few hours if the Blues manage a bonus point victory over the Chiefs at Eden Park.
The result has minimal impact on the Highlanders in the context of their season; following the result in Fiji they are guaranteed a sixth-placed finish. They also seemed to be focused on next week from the outset, naming a younger squad for this clash.
However, the result showed there is a lot of work for them to do if they are to progress deep into the finals campaign.
Salesi Rayasi of the Hurricanes breaks away for a try during the round 15 Super Rugby Pacific match between Hurricanes and Highlanders at Sky Stadium, on June 01, 2024, in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)
The visitors were the first on the board inside the first ten minutes when Matt Whaanga took advantage of some quality build-up play to score the first try.
However, it would prove to be the only time they would lead in the game, as the Hurricanes responded quickly with doubles to Salesi Rayasi and Du’Plessis Kirifi, plus an additional try for all-time try scorer T.J. Perenera. Brett Cameron also had a strong night with the boot, even more impressive considering the challenging conditions.
The Highlanders would grab their second try for the evening in the 32nd minute courtesy of Fabian Holland, however, it would be the last time they would trouble the scoresheet.
Rayasi would score a third try and complete his hattrick in the second half, with Brayden Iose also scoring in the final 20 minutes to put the result beyond doubt.
The win sends a ominous warning shot to the rest of the competition showcasing the clinical nature of the hosts, with many tries coming off brilliant team build up, structures and execution.
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The win in Wellington comes after the Fijian Drua prevailed 40-19 over the Melbourne Rebels in Suva – a result that ends the Crusaders and Western Force’s finals hopes and locks in the teams that will participate in finals.
The focus now turns to Eden Park and Perth, and for both the Chiefs and Force, the match is an effective dead rubber – the Chiefs are guaranteed to finish in fourth no matter the outcome, and the Force’s slim finals chances have been ended by the Drua’s victory.
However, both matches loom as vital for the Blues and Brumbies, with the results determining who will make up the second top-two spot and earn a potential home semi-final – and for the Blues, a chance to finish as minor premiers beckons.
More to follow.
