Fergus Burke and our three debutants in particular.

[Jin Wah]

10 international players will line up against the Hurricanes on Saturday night, including current All Blacks Joe Moody, Scott Barrett (Captain), Samuel Whitelock, David Havili (Vice-Captain), Braydon Ennor, George Bridge, Will Jordan, George Bower and Sevu Reece. Meanwhile Argentina loose forward and former Jaguares Captain, Pablo Matera, is set to become Crusader number 252 when he makes his debut on the blindside.

Fergus Burke has been handed the number 10 jersey following a solid pre-season campaign, while former Blues and Hurricanes first five-eighth, Simon Hickey, has been named on the bench in his debut season for the Crusaders.

The rest of the reserves also offer plenty of impact, including 22-year-old Canterbury hooker, Shilo Klein, who will provide cover for Brodie McAlister in the absence of Vice-Captain Codie Taylor.

"While we would have loved to be playing at home in front of our fans and families this weekend, we're really grateful to be able to get our 2022 campaign underway and understand just how much work has gone into getting the competition off the ground in Queenstown and Dunedin," Robertson said.

"It's an exciting week for the likes of Fergus Burke and our three debutants in particular. They've all worked extremely hard and prepared diligently for their opportunity and we look forward to seeing them step up on Saturday night."

Crusaders vs Hurricanes Rugby
Crusaders vs Hurricanes Super Rugby Game
Crusaders v Hurricanes Rugby Game
Hurricanes vs Crusaders Rugby
Hurricanes vs Crusaders Super Rugby

Debutant Justin Sangster becomes Hurricane #282, lining up alongside experienced lock James Blackwell. Just four months ago, the 23-year-old was working in supply chain management for Mainfreight and now he is set for his first taste of Super Rugby action.

“Up front in the locks, Sangster has had a really impressive preseason. He’s been really physical, so I’m looking forward to seeing his debut,” said Holland.

In the back row, Devan Flanders starts in the number six jersey, with Du’Plessis Kirifi at seven and Captain Ardie Savea at No. 8.

The Palmerston North Boys’ High School combination of Jamie Booth and Ruben Love are set to direct traffic at nine and 10. Booth, making his first appearance for the Hurricanes since August 2020, will be raring to go after an extended stint on the sidelines.

Peter Umaga-Jensen and Billy Proctor line up in the midfield, with Wes Goosen, Julian Savea and Jordie Barrett rounding out the Hurricanes 15.