Hurricanes ready for push to semis

Luke Andrews' promotion to lock in place of the injured Paul Tito was the only change made by Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper for Friday night's Super 14 rugby match.

The third-placed Hurricanes face the struggling Reds here at Westpac Stadium and will seal a semifinal spot if they win.

Tito strained ankle ligaments in Saturday's win against the Chiefs, but it was unknown how long he would be sidelined.

Ross Kennedy comes onto the reserves bench to replace Andrews.

The Hurricanes are on 39 points, three adrift of competition leaders the Waratahs who they play in the final round.

The Crusaders are second on points differential.

Hurricanes:

Isaia Toeava, Lome Fa'atau, Ma'a Nonu, Tana Umaga, Shannon Paku, David Holwell, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo (captain), Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Luke Andrews, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Joe McDonnell.

Reserves:

Tamati Ellison, Jimmy Gopperth, Brendan Haami, Thomas Waldrom, Ross Kennedy, John Schwalger, Luke Mahoney.

- NZPA