Franks returns for Hurricanes

Former Crusaders and All Blacks prop Owen Franks will make his long-awaited debut for the Hurricanes on Sunday, as veteran Dane Coles also makes his return to Super Rugby Pacific football.

Last May it was announced Franks had signed a two-year deal with the Canes, however the 34-year-old ruptured his achilles tendon in November, with initial fears it could sideline him for the entire season.

However, the 108-test tighthead will indeed get to don the new colours this year, named on the bench for a clash against the Fijian Drua where Jason Holland has opted to rest stars Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett.

With Savea taking the week off, TJ Perenara will captain the side, while former skipper Coles will play from the reserves in his first outing of the season following a hamstring injury on the All Blacks’ northern tour last year.

There are two Super Rugby debutants named in the hosts’ lineup – Manawatū loose

forward Tyler Laubscher, who himself is on the comeback from an 18-month injury layoff, will start at No 8, while 19-year-old midfielder Riley Higgins is on the bench.