Don't expect Hawke's Bay Magpies rugby winger Jonah Lowe to be among the Hurricanes non-players again this Super season.
Lowe, 21, who was unlucky not to make a first-class appearance for the Canes last year, proved how hungry he is for some this year with a hattrick in their 43-22 pre-season win against the defending champions Crusaders in Greymouth last night. Lowe scored all three of his tries in the first half before he was replaced by former All Black Julian Savea.
Magpies first five-eighth and former Blues pivot Ihaia West celebrated his first outing in Canes colours with two conversions. Crusaders coach Scott Robertson took the opportunity to blood 18 newcomers and it showed.
The Hurricanes scored 17 unanswered point early and led 24-5 at halftime. Early in the second half the visitors led 36-5 before the Crusaders gained some respect with a three-try burst.
Fears the wild weather which hit the West Coast town the previous day might impact on the occasion were blown away. The match was played in ideal conditions and no All Blacks who toured Europe last year were involved.