Finding the Right Centre

A glance at the midfield options the Hurricanes have at their disposal, and half of the picture paints itself; Ngani Laumape will play at second five-eighth. But who plays alongside him?

Yes, the depth here is one of their main strengths, but it is also a source of confusion. The answer to that question help bring some clarity to the rest of the backline.

Barrett will play at fullback, but any of Savea, Aso, Proctor, Umaga-Jensen or Toala have claims to the centre role, and several of them could also man one of the wings with Kobus Van Wyk and Ben Lam having moved on.

There are going to be several new combinations in their attacking game and getting those right are going to be important for the Hurricanes.