Flanders returns but concussion rules Delany out of Hurricanes' Super Rugby Pacific final

Devan Flanders has been cleared to start for the Hurricanes in the Super Rugby Pacific final, but the Wellington side will be without lock Caleb Delany, who has been ruled out with concussion.

Flanders, who missed the last three matches through injury, returns to the blindside flank for the home final. Delany’s absence sees Isaia Walker-Leawere promoted to the starting second row, while head coach Clark Laidlaw has opted to carry no specialist lock cover on the bench — instead naming Brad Shields at No.19.

The 35-year-old Shields, who has 16 years of professional rugby behind him, played 11 minutes at lock off the bench against the Brumbies at Super Round and has filled in at second row at various points throughout his career. Laidlaw is backing that experience to provide adequate cover should it be needed in a final.

One further change sees Jacob Devery come into the No.16 jersey in place of Raymond Tuputupu. The rest of the matchday 23 is unchanged from the side that won last week’s semi-final.

“It’s a hugely exciting week and game ahead. A home final in front of a sold-out stadium, it doesn’t get much better than that,” Laidlaw said.

“We’ve prepared really well at the start of the week. We’ve got no question about what’s coming from the Chiefs and how good they are. We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but it’s something we’re really excited about.”

Laidlaw was also relieved to have Flanders available, describing his return as a significant boost at a critical stage of the season. “It’s great news that we can welcome back Devan Flanders and pick a really settled team at this stage of the season. That’s something we’re really grateful for.”

The Hurricanes face the Chiefs in the final at a sold-out home venue, with Laidlaw’s side looking to claim the Super Rugby Pacific title on their own patch.