Injury Setback for Rising Star Ruben Love Ahead of Super Rugby Season

Rising All Blacks playmaker Ruben Love is facing a significant setback after suffering an ankle injury that will sideline him for up to six games in the Super Rugby Pacific season.

The Wellington Hurricanes revealed the news on Wednesday, just as they prepare to kick off their season on Friday against Moana Pasifika. Love's absence adds to the team's growing list of injuries, including seasoned players like All Blacks loose forward Du'Plessis Kirifi and winger Kini Naholo.

With these key players out, Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw announced that Warner Deans, the Japan co-captain and lock, will make his debut in the starting 15 this season.