Kirifi was penalised in the 67th minute for foul play which denied Ardie Savea a try, but the Canes powered on to win 20-19 over the Waratahs.
It's a new season which means it's time for the TVNZ rugby buffs to dust off their crystal balls and pick some winners in the first week!
The 23-year-old has been given the nod to start at first-five for the Canes against the Waratahs.
All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara has been named as captain for the Hurricanes' clash against the Waratahs.
Lam ran in to score under the goal posts untouched in his side's 31-38 loss to the Blues in Mangatainoka.
Nonu, 36, didn't miss a beat for the Blues as they edged the Hurricanes 38-31 in Mangatainoka.
The 25-year-old said family played a big part in choosing to stay in NZ until the end of 2021.
The 25-year-old midfielder will remain on Kiwi shores until at least the end of 2021.
The Hurricanes' assistant coach was back in his hometown for Super Rugby pre-season.
The defending champions claimed a 34-19 victory over the Hurricanes in Levin this afternoon.
The All Blacks players linked back up with their Super Rugby teams for pre-season training.
The 32-year-old All Blacks star has extended his contract with the Hurricanes and NZ Rugby until the end of 2021.
The front-rower will join up with Lima Sopoaga and Malakai Fekitoa at Kiwi-laden English club Wasps.
The Hurricanes centre revealed he's joining English side Northampton Saints.
The Hurricanes announced today that Aumua and Rayasi will stay with the Wellington franchise for another two-years.
Kirifi will link up with former Francis Douglas Memorial College class-mate Jordie Barrett.
The new Hurricane has signed a five-year deal with the Wellington side.
Rayasi and former Highlanders first-five Fletcher Smith are eager to show their worth when the squad assembles next month.
The All Blacks assistant coach doesn't see time at No.13 for Barrett.
Saturday's result has led to some cheeky All Blacks sibling rivalry in Taranaki.
Coles has been sidelined for nine months with multiple issues.
George Bridge is the solitary player selected from the champions.
The Crusaders will get a chance to defend their title after a 30-12 win.
1 NEWS NOW pundit Campbell Burnes gives his picks and analysis.
The two top Kiwi sides meet in this weekend's Super Rugby semi-final.
Savea hasn't played since injuring his ankle with All Blacks last month.
The Crusaders will start 12 All Blacks on Saturday night.
The former All Blacks skipper says the Crusaders will have to limit their error count against the Canes if they want to win back-to-back titles.
The clash of the titans offers something for everyone.
1 NEWS NOW pundit Campbell Burnes gives his picks and analysis.
