Boyd backs Canes duo to shine against Brumbies

Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd has backed forwards Victor Vito and Ardie Savea to play key roles in their Super Rugby Semi-final against the Brumbies in Wellington.

Boyd believes that if the two can deliver impressive peformances in the Semi-final it would boost both players Test aspirations.

Hurricanes coach Boyd believes that Savea is one of the unluckiest players not to win selection in the All Black squad that was announced on Sunday.

Boyd expects that Savea’s response will be to outshine Wallaby David Pocock in the Semi-final sending a message to All Black selectors that he would be a great selection choice as replacement should All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Sam Cane or Matt Todd get injured.

“I think Ardie’s been particularly good for us this year. I don’t have any doubt his time will come,” Boyd told AAP.

“The other guys are a good crop of openside flankers as well so he just has to suck it up and get on with it.”

Vito was included in the All Black squad and is in a selection battle woth Liam Messam to win a place in the All Black world cup squad.

Boyd said that twenty-eight-year-old Vito is losing his tag as a skilled player but without the physicality of some of game’s best loosies.

“The nice thing from Victor is that he’s often been branded as not tough enough. “

“Well, he’s got the highest dominant tackle rate of anyone in Super Rugby this year. In the defensive area, he’s stiffened up really well.”