Perenara ruled out of Hurricanes-Chiefs clash

Beauden Barrett is back but TJ Perenara's name is missing from the Hurricanes team to face the Chiefs in a table‑topping Super Rugby showdown.

All Blacks playmaker Barrett missed the nail‑biting 38‑37 win over the Sharks last weekend with a minor leg problem but is back for tonight's high‑stakes match in Wellington.

However, long‑time halves partner Perenara is ruled out by a knee problem which forced him off at halftime in Napier.

The winner of the match between the third‑placed Hurricanes and fourth‑placed Chiefs will almost certainly lead the overall standings after round nine, with the Lions and Crusaders above them sitting out byes.

Both Kiwi outfits opened the season with a loss but are coming off five straight wins, including come‑from‑behind victories on home soil last week.

The Chiefs are the only team to have won in Wellington over the last three seasons, achieving it twice.

The Hurricanes will take on the Chiefs at 7.35 tonight.

Source: TVNZ

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