The Hurricanes played the Lions at Westpac Stadium, Wellington. Chiefs won 33-18. Another bonus point given.

Kick off: 08h35 (RSA time).

Hurricanes’ recent form at home: (W, W, W, W, L, W, W, L, W, W)

· The Hurricanes conceded only two defeats at the hands of the Vodacom Bulls (14-19) and the HSBC Waratahs (22-26) in Wellington last year.

· In 2008, the hosts suffered a 13-20 defeat against the Crusaders and held the Sharks to a 13-13 draw at the Westpac Stadium.

Auto & General Lions recent form on the road: (L, W, L, L, L, L, L, L, L, L)

· The Johannesburg franchise has won one (31-20 victory over the Reds) out of their last 10 away games.

· The Auto & General Lions has never defeated the Hurricanes in Wellington in the history of Super Rugby.

Teams

Hurricanes:

John Schwalger, Andrew Hore (c), Neemia Tialata, Bryn Evans, Jason Eaton, Michael Paterson, Karl Lowe, Rodney So’oialo, Piri Weepu, Willie Ripia, David Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Tamati Ellison, Cory Jane Reserves: Dane Coles, Jacob Ellison, Nick Crosswell, Scott Waldrom, Tyson Keats, Aaron Cruden, Andre Taylor

Lions:

Heinke van der Merwe, Hannes Franklin, Ross Geldenhuys, Franco van der Merwe, George Earl, Cobus Grobbelaar (c), Derick Minnie, Todd Clever, JP Joubert, Carlos Spencer, Wandile Mjekevu, Doppies la Grange, Deon van Rensburg, Tonderai Chavhanga, Earl Rose. Reserves: Charles Emslie, Kevin Buys, Jacques Lombaard, Robert Kruger, Jacques Coetzee, Walter Venter, Michael Killian.

Referee: Paul Marks

Assistant Referres : Chris Pollock (NZL), Mathew Stanish (NZL)

TMO : Mike Fraser (NZL)