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Hurricanes 16 Blues 31
Blues (Papalii, Carke, Perofeta, Ioane tries; Black 4 conversion, 1 penalty)
Full time
80 mins - The Hurricanes have one final opportunity to attack on their own 22. After seven phases the attack comes to nothing and the Blues grab first blood.
77 mins - TRY BLUES to Rieko Ioane
The Hurricanes go for a risky crossfield kick which Barrett and Umaga-Jensen make a meal of. It falls to Ioane who sprints 60m to seal the deal. Black converts the try.
(BLU 31-16)
75 mins - PENALTY GOAL BLUES to Otere Black
The Blues are attacking just inside the Hurricanes 22. After six phases Ardie Savea goes for another breakdown turnover but he s off his feet and gives away a penalty.
Joe Allison/Getty Images
Jordie Barrett of the Hurricanes warms up ahead of the Super Rugby Aotearoa pre-season match against the Highlanders.
Seven months ago Sky Stadium roared and Jordie Barrett was the Hurricanes’ hero, his late sideline conversion sinking the Blues and older brother Beauden. On Saturday night the sides return to Wellington for round one of Super Rugby Aotearoa, Jordie ensconced as the Hurricanes’ No 15 and matchwinner while Beauden sits out the competition for a Japanese stint. It means less hype around the sibling rivalry, but just as much feeling between the sides who desperately want flying starts to the two-round competition which could extend to three if trans-Tasman involvement is scuppered by Covid-19.
· ALLBLACKS.COM · GETTY IMAGES
On Saturday night (NZT) Dan Carter took to social media to announce his retirement from professional rugby.
The 38 year-old, who first picked up a rugby ball 32 years ago, said he was grateful he was able to announce the news on his own terms.
“I can’t thank everyone who has played a part in my journey enough, from my teammates, opponents, coaching and management teams, sponsors and in particular you, the fans.”
He went onto play 112 Tests for the All Blacks, having made his debut against Wales as a 21 year-old in 2003. After his international retirement, he joined Racing 92 in Paris, before moving to Japan to play for the Kobe Steelers for two seasons.