Rugby: Hammett opts against changes

Only one change has been made to the Hurricanes' starting XV that lost to the Blues last Saturday. Photo / Getty Images

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett has kept faith with the starting 15 beaten 41-17 for their Super 15 rugby match against the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday.

The only change to the matchday squad sees flanker Serge Lilo, who has recovered from a knee injury, oust Mark Reddish on the bench. Faifili Levave, who replaced Lilo in the starting lineup against the Blues, remains at blindside flanker.

Daniel Kirkpatrick retains his place as starting first five-eighth ahead of All Black hopeful Aaron Cruden.

Not considered for selection because of injury were Piri Weepu (ankle), Karl Lowe (knee), Hosea Gear (shoulder), Rodney So'oialo (lower back) and Alapati Leiua (knee).

Hurricanes: Cory Jane, Julian Savea, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Andre Taylor, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Chris Eaton, Victor Vito, Jack Lam, Faifili Levave, Jason Eaton, Jeremy Thrush, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore (captain), John Schwalger. Reserves: Dane Coles, Anthony Perenise, James Broadhurst, Serge Lilo, Tyson Keats, Aaron Cruden, Jayden Hayward.

- NZPA