Rugby: Vito ruled out for Hurricanes

Hurricanes blindside Victor Vito injured a calf muscle at training today. Photo / Getty Images

Flanker Victor Vito has been ruled out of Friday's Super 14 rugby match against the Reds in Wellington after suffering an injury at training today.

In-form blindside Vito incurred a calf injury which is likely to sideline him for only one week but it means he will miss the crucial match against their fellow-playoff contenders. The Hurricanes are seventh and the Reds fourth, leaving both teams desperate for victory.

Lock Michael Paterson has been shifted to the blindside flank, with Jeremy Thrush promoted from the reserve bench to start alongside Bryn Evans in the second row. Nick Crosswell comes onto the bench.

It is the third change to the Hurricanes starting side who beat the Chiefs 33-27 last Saturday, with the All Black Piri Weepu supplanting Tyson Keats at halfback after spending recent weeks on the reserve bench while prop Jacob Ellison starts on the loosehead side in place of John Schwalger.

All Blacks centre Conrad Smith was named to start but must pass psychometric tests today after suffering multiple head knocks against the Chiefs.

Former captain and No 8 Rodney So'oialo will play his 100th match for the franchise while backs Jason Kawau and Willie Ripia have been bracketed on the reserve bench.

Hurricanes
Cory Jane, Tamati Ellison, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Hosea Gear, Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo, Karl Lowe, Michael Paterson, Bryn Evans, Jeremy Thrush, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore (captain), Jacob Ellison. Reserves: Dane Coles, John Schwalger, Nick Crosswell, Scott Waldrom, Tyson Keats, Jason Kawau/Willie Ripia, David Smith

- NZPA