Super Rugby 2019: Jordie Barrett returns to Hurricanes for Highlanders clash

The Hurricanes have made a pair of changes to their starting side to take on the Highlanders in Wellington on Friday.

After missing last week's win over the Brumbies, Jordie Barrett comes back into the run-on team in the less familiar number 14 jersey.

Barrett started the Hurricanes' opening two games at fullback, before being rested in accordance with All Blacks policy during the 43-13 win over the Brumbies in Palmerston North on Friday.

Jeff To'omaga-Allen slots back in as first-choice starting tighthead prop, rotating in for Ben May, who shifts to the bench.

Coach John Plumtree said he was eager to give the impressive Chase Tiatia another go in the custodian role, while also affording Barrett a chance to work on his versatility.

"There were obviously some tough calls when it came to selecting the side," Plumtree said. "But we were really impressed with the way Chase handled his debut and he has been rewarded for that."

Barrett's 1.96m frame also brings some additional height to the Hurricanes' outside backs, which Plumtree believes could be key in defusing the Highlanders' favoured kick and chase tactics.

Looking to rebound after a gut-wrenching loss to the Melbourne Rebels last weekend, the southerners will be galvanised by the return of All Blacks duo Ben Smith and Aaron Smith.

"The Highlanders are going to be a massive challenge for us, like all New Zealand derbies are, but we are very keen on maintaining our proud record at Westpac Stadium in front of our home fans."

Hurricanes: 1-Chris Eves, 2-Dane Coles, 3-Jeff To'omaga-Allen, 4-James Blackwell, 5-Liam Mitchell, 6-Vaea Fifita, 7-Du'Plessis Kirifi, 8-Ardie Savea, 9-TJ Perenara, 10-Beauden Barrett, 11-Ben Lam, 12-Ngani Laumape, 13-Matt Proctor, 14-Jordie Barrett, 15-Chase Tiatia

Reserves: 16-Asafo Aumua, 17-Fraser Armstrong, 18-Ben May, 19-Isaia Walker-Leawere, 20-Reed Prinsep, 21-Richard Judd, 22-Jackson Garden-Bachop, 23-Vince Aso

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Join us at 7:30pm Friday for live updates of the Hurricanes vs Highlanders Super Rugby clash.