Hurricanes' coach Mark Hammett has named his eight-strong wider training group as the squad continues their pre-season training.
With five members of last year's wider training group earning full contracts, Mark Hammett noted the importance the wider training group players have in the team.
"Our wider training group play a crucial role in the development and depth of our squad. Many of last year's group got game time and they have been rewarded for making the most of their opportunity," he said.
Despite an impressive season in the second-tier of the ITM Cup, no Manawatu players were included in the mix.
Wider training group: Michael Coman (Hawke's Bay), Scott Fuglistaller (Wellington), Whetu Henry (Wellington), Serge Lilo (Wellington), James Marshall (Tasman), Jackson Ormond (Taranaki), Blade Thomson (Taranaki), Frae Wilson (Wellington)
