Rugby: Split Super Rugby loyalties for Hore

All Black Andrew Hore. Photo / File

Former All Black Andrew Hore will be happy whoever emerges triumphant from tonight's Super Rugby final between the Hurricanes and Highlanders.

Hore represented both franchises during his career and, although he professes to be a Hurricanes fan, no matter the result he "can't really lose".

The hooker played 106 games for the Hurricanes during a 10-year career before bringing down the curtain with a two-year stint at the Highlanders, his home town team and the one closest to his Maniatoto base.

Hore has been watching with interest as the Hurricanes added solidity in the pack to their typically sparking play in attack and, although he was irritated by the suggestion during his playing days, he acknowledged they finally have the full package.

"I can remember one of the first headlines when I was at the Hurricanes - we were a million dollar backline and 10 cents forward pack," he said. "That can irk you a little bit when you are out there.

"But on paper the Hurricanes [forwards] are a lot stronger and the subs are a bit better as well."

Hore was equally impressed with the Highlanders pack, saying what they had accomplished this season was "pretty special".

"If you looked at them on paper at the start of the year you wouldn't have given them a chance," he said. "The coaching group have obviously done pretty well.

"They are one win away from being the best Highlanders team ever."

But to attain that lofty target, Hore reckoned the Highlanders would have to figure out a way to negate the influence of Ma'a Nonu.
 
"The best thing they ever did was get Ma'a Nonu back. He's Wellington through and through and, rugby now, if you can get over the advantage line in the midfield you are halfway there. He has been huge."

As for who he was tipping, push come to shove, Hore went with the side that was closest to his heart.
 
"[The Hurricanes] got robbed in the fog [in 2006] so it would be good to see them win this time."