CANES LOCK IN SOUTH AFRICAN

Having lost Sam Lousi for the season, the Hurricanes turned to South Africa for a replacement, bringing in Andries Ferreira as cover.

The 28-year-old previously played for the Cheetahs and Lions and had a brief stint with Toulon. His arrival forced us to consider who we think have been the best foreign recruits in New Zealand Super Rugby teams.

1: NEMANI NADOLO [Crusaders]

Easily the best foreign player to wash up in New Zealand in the whole of Super Rugby history.

The big wing was at times the only real attacking weapon the Crusaders had and without him they would have been nowhere near the playoffs in 2014 or 2016.

2: FUMIAKA TANAKA [Highlanders]

This little dude was brilliant value at halfback for the Highlanders. Not only was he a seriously good passer and orchestrator he was a big contributor to the team culture. One of the nicest players in the world game.

4: MATT SYMONS [Chiefs]

A ball winning, bruising lock who maybe could have eased into the All Blacks selection frame if he had stayed one more year to earn his residency.

3: TYLER ARDRON [Chiefs]

The Canadian forward has been impressive at lock, blindside and No 8 since he joined the Chiefs in 2017. He’s a rugged man yet he’s got plenty of skill and awareness.

5: FAMES HASKELL [Highlanders]

Wasn’t a massive success with the Highlanders but did enough to earn his keep. Always gave all he had and had a bit of pace to cause a few problems when he carried.