Hurricanes target rare Crusaders season sweep

Hurricanes player Cam Roigard holds a rugby ball in a match graphic promoting the round 16 Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Crusaders at One NZ Stadium on Friday, May 29.
The Hurricanes face the Crusaders in Christchurch tonight as they chase a rare season sweep and build momentum before the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs.

The Hurricanes will chase a rare season sweep over the Crusaders when the two sides meet in Christchurch tonight in the final round of Super Rugby Pacific.

The Wellington-based side enter the match in strong form after a 45-28 win over the Highlanders and remain firmly in the hunt for a top playoff position.

Halfback Cam Roigard returns to the starting XV after three weeks out with a calf injury, while All Blacks prop Tyrel Lomax is also back after two months on the sideline with an ankle injury.

Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw has also named Cooper Flanders, Josh Timu and Taniela Filimone for their debuts as the squad manages injuries and looks to maintain momentum before the finals.

The Crusaders will be without several senior players, including All Blacks captain Scott Barrett, who is facing a lengthy spell out after back surgery. Fullback Will Jordan has also been ruled out for the rest of the season with a calf injury.

Despite those setbacks, the match will be a milestone occasion for Crusaders wing Sevu Reece, who is set to play his 100th game for the club.

The Hurricanes won the first meeting between the teams this season, 38-31. A win tonight would give them their first season sweep of the Crusaders since 2014.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7.05pm at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch. Fans can follow live updates through official Super Rugby Pacific and Hurricanes channels.