Daniel Kirkpatrick has replaced fringe All Black Aaron Cruden at five eighth in the Hurricanes team named for the Super Rugby clash with the Blues in Auckland on Saturday.

Kirkpatrick, 22, gets his chance after impressing as a substitute in last week's 29-26 win over the Chiefs.

In other changes, Ma'a Nonu returns from a one-match suspension to start at inside centre ahead of Jayden Hayward, lock Jeremy Thrush is back from a calf injury to replace James Broadhurst and Faifili Levave starts at blindside flanker after a knee injury ruled Serge Lilo out.

Not considered for selection because of injury were Piri Weepu (ankle), Karl Lowe (knee), Hosea Gear (shoulder), Lilo, Rodney So'oialo (lower back) and Alapati Leiua (knee).

The match will mark several personal milestones for the Hurricanes, with captain Andrew Hore set to play his 100th Super rugby match, Nonu his 100th match for the Hurricanes, and fullback Cory Jane his 50th match for the Hurricanes.

Hurricanes: Cory Jane, Julian Savea, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Andre Taylor, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Chris Eaton, Victor Vito, Jack Lam, Faifili Levave, Jason Eaton, Jeremy Thrush, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore (captain), John Schwalger. Reserves: Dane Coles, Anthony Perenise, James Broadhurst, Mark Reddish, Tyson Keats, Aaron Cruden, Jayden Hayward.

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