Flanker accepts defeat, Waratahs next

Hurricanes and All Blacks openside flanker Du’Plessis Kirifi is optimistic that they can bounce back to beat the NSW Waratahs, this weekend.

This was after they lost 25-20 to the Fijian Drua in Lautoka, last Saturday. The Drua is having a bye in this weekend Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Speaking to SUNsports, Kirifi said at the end of the day the Drua was a better team.

They were a better team today; we just couldnt capitalise on our chances, he said.

It was tough in these conditions but big congrats to them (Drua), they did well.

Kirifi did not play due to a niggling injury.

Despite the Hurricanes leading 17-13 at halftime, the Drua bounced back to secure their first win of the season.

Drua super-sub Peni Ravai assist-ed in the winning try when he offloaded to blindside flanker Etonia Waqa to score the winning try.

“The game was intense to be hon-est even the weather was on their side. Well, the game is over, we will turn our focus on our next job,” Kirifi added.

The Hurricanes will face Waratahs on Friday in Sydney.

“We will learn from our mistakes and regroup. That is the beauty of this game; one will win and one will lose,” he said.

Kirifi stated they will not leave any stones unturned against the Waratahs.

“They have recorded two from two wins; which is impressive. But they should never count us out; we will have to get the job done,” he said.

Competitive season

Kirifi has labeled the 2026 Super Rugby season as a very competitive one.

“Many teams are exceptional-ly doing well; like the Fijian Drua. They have caused upsets and made the competition very interesting,” he said

Kirifi stated the first three rounds of competition has shown how much the game has grown.

“It is a great sign to see the game grow and improve.”He also thanked fans for coming out to watch the encounter.