Wellington, New Zealand – Du’Plessis Kirifi, the newly capped All Black, is set to return to the Hurricanes lineup this Friday, bringing with him not only a wealth of international experience but also a renewed focus on evolving his game and leadership style. After a calf injury sidelined him at the start of the Super Rugby Pacific season, Kirifi is eager to contribute to a Hurricanes side aiming to move beyond its reputation for unpredictability and achieve consistent success.
Kirifi, who also captains Wellington in the Bunnings NPC, has quickly grow a key figure in New Zealand rugby. He’s known for his passionate play, but recognizes the require for greater consistency as he steps into a more prominent leadership role alongside fellow All Black Jordie Barrett. The Hurricanes, co-captained by Kirifi and Barrett, are looking to build on a strong 2024 season where they topped the round robin but fell short in the semi-finals, losing to the Chiefs.
The 29-year-old flanker acknowledges the need to refine aspects of his game. “I never want to suppress who I am, but to become a leader and an All Black, I had to tidy up some aspects of my game that were maybe holding me back,” Kirifi explained. “I needed to be more measured, mature and consistent as a leader. The biggest thing I’ve improved is accuracy on the ball in both attack, and defence.”
Kirifi’s journey to becoming a leader has been marked by success at both the provincial and international levels. He led the Wellington Lions to NPC titles in 2022 and 2024, securing 40 wins in 52 games as skipper. His strong performances in Super Rugby Pacific in 2025 – starting 13 of 15 matches – earned him a spot in the All Blacks squad, where he debuted in a 31-27 win against France in Dunedin. He went on to earn eight Test caps in 2025, including a start in a 41-24 victory over Argentina in Córdoba and a 52-26 win against Wales in Cardiff.
From “Heart on Sleeve” to Measured Leader
Kirifi’s evolution as a player has been about channeling his intensity. He admits to previously giving away penalties frequently, but credits self-accountability and honest feedback from teammates and coaches with helping him mature. “I used to give away penalties like they were going out of fashion,” he said. He maintains, while, that he won’t abandon his authentic self. “I’ll still be authentic,” Kirifi replied when asked if he’d tone down his emotional displays.
His experience in the All Blacks provided valuable lessons. “The biggest thing I learned in international rugby is there is far less time and space than in Super Rugby,” Kirifi noted. “The game is scrutinised from every angle. Nothing is missed.” He also observed that the pressure and public scrutiny are significantly higher at the international level.
Shifting the Hurricanes’ Identity
The Hurricanes have long been known for their attacking flair and willingness to “expect the unexpected.” However, Kirifi believes a more pragmatic approach may be necessary to break through in the playoffs. “We want to move away from that,” he stated. “We are not going to shut down the boys’ ability to express themselves, but there are times in a game where it tightens, and you have to turn the screws and play the percentages.”
The Hurricanes’ roster appears well-equipped for the 2026 campaign, with 33 players retained from the previous squad. Jordie Barrett returns after a successful stint with Leinster, where he won the United Rugby Championship and secured seven tries in 15 games. Josh Moorby, having played for Montpellier in France, also adds depth to the squad, bringing with him a record of 24 tries in 39 appearances for the Hurricanes, including a hat-trick against Moana Pasifika on February 20. Jason Holland also returns to the management staff, having previously served as head coach from 2020 to 2023.
Friday’s Matchup: Hurricanes vs. Waratahs
Kirifi will make his season debut and 94th appearance for the Hurricanes on Friday night when they travel to Sydney to face the unbeaten Waratahs. The Hurricanes are seeking to improve their away form, having won only two of their last seven away games. The Waratahs, meanwhile, are aiming for a third consecutive win to start the season, a feat they haven’t achieved in 17 years. Historically, the Hurricanes have dominated the Waratahs, leading the head-to-head record 18-10 and currently holding an eight-game win streak. The Waratahs’ last home win against the Hurricanes was in 2014.
As the Hurricanes prepare for this crucial match, Kirifi’s return from injury provides a significant boost. His leadership and experience will be vital as the team seeks to implement a more balanced and strategic approach to Super Rugby Pacific. The Hurricanes will be wearing their club socks this weekend as part of the Club Rugby Round.
The Hurricanes’ success in 2026 will depend on their ability to blend their traditional attacking strengths with a more disciplined and adaptable game plan. With Kirifi and Barrett leading the charge, the team is poised to make a strong push for the championship.
Stay tuned for updates on the Hurricanes’ season and follow their progress as they navigate the challenges of Super Rugby Pacific. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
