Hurricanes hit the road

The Hurricanes are once again heading to Palmerston North with one of their most high profile games in next year.

Hurricanes CEO James Te Puni and Manawatu Rugby CEO John Knowles confirmed that the Canes will take on the Stormers at the FMG Stadium.

The Hurricanes last played in Palmerston North in 2010 and were looking forward to returning next season.

The game will be on Friday, April 26.

"Manawatu is an important part of the Hurricanes region. It has been home for many past and present Hurricanes, with the latest edition in Cullum Gibbons who is part of the Hurricanes Wider Training Group," said James Te Puni.

"This will be a fantastic match. The Stormers were our round one opponent in 2012 and it was a tough encounter over in Cape Town. On home turf, the team will be looking forward to the re-match and I'm sure the Manawatu fans will be right behind them," he added,

Palmerston North was the venue for the very first Super Rugby match back in 1996 between the Hurricanes and the Blues, so it holds a special place in the history of both the Hurricanes and the competition.

Assistant Coach Alama Ieremia, who scored the first try in that first match, was delighted to be heading back to Palmerston North. "It is a great place and we have fantastic fans up there. These regional games are very special to the team and are a highlight on the team's calendar each year. Here's hoping we can put in a performance our Palmy fans can be proud of."