Rugby: Weepu to start for Hurricanes

Piri Weepu has replaced Tyson Keats at halfback for the Hurricanes. Photo / Getty Images

All Blacks halfback Piri Weepu has regained a starting berth for the Hurricanes for their Super 14 rugby match against the Crusaders in Wellington on Friday night.

Weepu has been given the nod ahead of Tyson Keats, who has been named on the reserves bench after being favoured to start by coach Colin Cooper in recent weeks.

Cooper today also included wing Hosea Gear in place of Andre Taylor after Gear overcame a knee injury.

The Hurricanes are desperate for success after losing four consecutive matches and will face a Crusaders team featuring three changes.

Fullback Colin Slade replaces Jared Payne at fullback, Andy Ellis has been named at halfback in place of Kahn Fotuali'i and Sam Whitelock takes over at lock ahead of Isaac Ross.

Hurricanes
Cory Jane, Tamati Ellison, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Hosea Gear, Willie Ripia, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo, Karl Lowe, Victor Vito, Michael Paterson, Jeremy Thrush, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore (captain), John Schwalger.

Reserves: Dane Coles, Anthony Perenise, Bryn Evans, Scott Waldrom, Tyson keats, Aaron Cruden, Jason Kawau.

Crusaders
Colin Slade, Sean Maitland, Robbie Fruean, Ryan Crotty, Zac Guildford, Daniel Carter, Andy Ellis, Kieran Read, George Whitelock, Richie McCaw (captain), Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Ti'i Paulo, Wyatt Crockett.

Reserves: Daniel Perrin, Ben Franks, Chris Jack, Thomas Waldrom, Kahn Fotuali'i, Adam Whitelock, Jared Payne.

- NZPA