The Hurricanes know they've got an intense challenge on their hands as the reigning champions come to town, hungry for their first win of the season.
The 26-year-old has thrived on both the sevens and 15s scenes, and 2024 was a year in which Canada was at the forefront - perhaps more than ever - for rugby’s cognoscenti. Apps is currently out in Perth preparing for round three of the HSBC SVNS, with securing a spot at the upcoming 15s World Cup a key focus.
It was January 2024 when the 46-cap South African international was suspended following the positive June 2023 test for Clenbuterol, the banned substance that can help with weight loss and increase muscle mass.
The 30-year-old, who notched a Heineken Champions Cup/Gallagher Premiership double in his first season in England in 2019/20, decided to return to Pretoria on a three-year deal following his last Chiefs appearance versus London Irish in May.
Kirsten played 80 Champions Cup/Gallagher Premiership matches across four seasons for Exeter, including a pivotal part in their 2019/20 dream double, but he hasn’t been in a game since a farewell runout for the Chiefs 11 months ago in London Irish’s final fixture before their collapse.
Hurricanes assistant coach Cory Jane has advised Cam Roigard to “attack the rehab” after the All Blacks halfback suffered a devastating leg injury.
Brive were worthy returnees to the Top 14 after a single Pro D2 campaign and while recruitment has been limited, there can expect consolidation in 2020/21.
It was May 2 when Brive announced that 10 players would leave… the Top 14 club have now recruited 5 replacements, including Fijian Setariki Tuicuvu.
The 2019/20 Top 14 season was terminated on Thursday, French officials finally admitting defeat in their quest to eventually restart the suspended campaign.