“It’s not only been a process over the NPC, but it started back in January around trying to look at the areas of the squad that needed reinforcements.
Jordie Barrett will be back with the Hurricanes as they look to defend their Super Rugby crown. Photo / Photosport
“I think we’ve done a really good job on that with the coaches and Tom Kindley, our GM Rugby, in terms of filling the gaps and bringing in some youth as we look to the future, as well as some players who are Super Rugby-ready.
“We feel like the balance we’ve managed to get in the main squad allows us to continue to play and prepare well with experience, as well as having an eye to the future.
“It’s good to get the squad done and now we get into the final preparations for pre-season as we look to welcome the new and returning Hurricanes back in November.”
Meanwhile, the Highlanders have named their side to take on the 2027 Super Rugby season with Ethan De Groot, Timoci Tavatavanawai and Fabian Holland bringing plenty of test experience.
Josh Jacomb joins their ranks as does Shannon Frizell on his return from Japan, with Argentine Tomás Lavanini and Fijian Joseva Tamani bringing further international experience to the Highlanders.
Ethan de Groot (left) recently re-signed with NZ Rugby and will stay at the club until 2029. Photo / Photosport
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph said there is healthy competition among several positions this season.
“The important thing for us is we’re not starting again,” Joseph said.
“A lot of these young guys have now had exposure to Super Rugby, we’ve been able to keep them together, and we’ve added some quality and experience around them.
“The challenge now is turning that into performance. It has been really pleasing to see players from our environment get opportunities at the next level.
“Timoci has continued to grow as a player and leader, and Saula has worked incredibly hard for his opportunity.
“Getting Shannon back and having Fabian available again is important as well. It adds experience and quality to the group and creates more competition for places.
“Halfback is another good example of that competition, Folau has played at the highest level and we know what he can bring, while Dylan and Adam are young players who are continuing to develop and push hard for opportunities.
“We don’t want players waiting for their turn. We want them putting pressure on each other and making selection difficult for us. That’s how the whole group gets better.”
Hurricanes squad
Props: Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Xavier Numia, Pasilio Tosi, Tito Tuipulotu, Rohan Wingham
Hookers: Asafo Aumua, Vernon Bason, Jacob Devery, Raymond Tuputupu
Locks: Alefosio Aho, Caleb Delany, Dylan Eti, Hunter Morrison, Hugo Plummer
Loose Forwards: Oliver Haig, Brayden Iose, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Peter Lakai, Arese Poliko, Brad Shields, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa
Halfbacks: Bryn Hall, Cam Roigard, Jordi Viljoen
First Fives: Brett Cameron, Harry Godfrey, Ruben Love
Midfielders: Tāmiro Armstrong, Jordie Barrett, Heremaia Murray, Billy Proctor, Jone Rova
Outside Backs: Josh Gray, Fehi Fineanganofo, Callum Harkin, Josh Moorby, Kini Naholo, Ngane Punivai
Highlanders squad
Props: Jermaine Ainsley, Josh Bartlett, Ethan De Groot, Benét Kumeroa Saula Ma’u, Jack Sexton, Angus Ta’avao
Hookers: Henry Bell, Ioane Moananu, Jack Taylor
Locks: Mitch Dunshea, Fabian Holland, Tomas Lavanini, Josh Tengblad
Loose Forwards: Nikora Broughton, Lucas Casey, Shannon Frizell, Te Kamaka Howden, Veveni Lasaqa, Joseva Tamani, Will Stodart, Sean Withy
Halfbacks: Folau Fakatava, Adam Lennox, Dylan Pledger
First Fives: Josh Jacomb, Mika Muliaina, Patrick Pellegrini
Midfielders: Meihana Grindlay, Reesjan Pasitoa, Timoci Tavatavanawai Josh Whaanga
Outside Backs: Finn Hurley, Jona Nareki, Stanley Solomon, Caleb Tangitau, Tuna Tuitama, Xavier Tito-Harris, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
More to come.