The Hurricanes have secured top seeding for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific playoffs after a 45-28 win over the Highlanders at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Saturday night.
The bonus-point victory means Clark Laidlaw’s side will finish the regular season on top of the table, giving Wellington hosting rights through the finals if the Hurricanes keep winning.
Ruben Love again strengthened his case for higher honours, scoring a standout solo try and guiding a Hurricanes backline that has been one of the competition’s most dangerous this season.
Laidlaw said Love’s growth at fly-half had been clear throughout the campaign.
“He’s an outstanding professional both physically and mentally,” Laidlaw said after the match.
“He does his homework, he’s always the first to have some thoughts around how we want to play.”
The Hurricanes made a fast start, with Josh Moorby crossing inside two minutes before the Highlanders were reduced to 14 men when Daniel Lienert-Brown was red-carded for a high shot on Devan Flanders.
Kini Naholo scored twice, while Love, Moorby, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Brayden Iose and Ereatara Enari also crossed for the home side.
The Highlanders responded through Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Adam Lennox and Lucas Casey, but could not close the gap.
The result was the Hurricanes’ 11th win of the season. They have scored 84 tries in 13 matches, more than any other team in the competition.
The Hurricanes finish the regular season against the Crusaders in Christchurch next week.
Fans can follow finals updates, ticketing details and match information through the Hurricanes and Super Rugby Pacific websites.
