Going into the competition, the Hurricanes where heavy favourites to win the 2009 Super 14. They have placed consistently well in the log since 2005, bar 2007, where they finished 8th overall, but have in recent years picked up the label of “always the bridesmaid, never the bride”, due to their habit of getting close, but losing the big games.

They have featured in the semifinals 6 times, and only progressed to the final once, where they lost out to the Crusaders in 2006, in a game that was heavily effected by blankets of fog, to the extent that it could hardly be seen on television.

The Hurricanes enjoy the services of a whole host of All Blacks, including the likes of, midfield pair, Ma’a Nonu ndConrad Smith, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Rodney So’oialo, Piri Weepu, and speedster, Hosea Gear and Cory Jane, to name a few. Adding to these big names will be exciting All Black u20 star, Aaron Cruden, who will be looking to make things count this year, and use his chances to stake a claim on the #10 jumper.

Players to watch:

• When there is 104kg of centre running at you in Ma’a Nonu, you are going to kak yourself.
• Conrad Smith is one of the best #13’s in the game. He needs to make it through this season injury free.
• Andrew Hore is devastating from hooker.
• Hosea Gear and Cory Jane are deadly from the back.
• Newcomer, Aaron Cruden should allow for some excitement if he gets his chance at #10

This is what they are capable of: [motormouthtim]

Possible concerns:

• Ma’a Nonu’s hands.
• The Hurricanes’ old habit of losing to themselves

BSR’s prediction for the Hurricanes’ best possible finish: possible playoff contenders