Coles, Aso likely to start against Lions

Cape Town - The Hurricanes are set to include hooker Dane Coles and centre Vince Aso in their starting XV for Saturday’s Super Rugby semi-final against the Lions in Johannesburg.

After a four-month injury layoff, All Black hooker Coles made his return to action off bench against the Brumbies last week, while Aso has been sidelined for the Hurricanes’ last two games due to a groin injury.

Assistant coach John Plumtree all but confirmed Coles’ spot in the starting team.

"Boydy (head coach Chris Boyd) hasn't named the side yet but, yeah, he's good to go. He's got that old spark back and pretty motivated obviously. It's a big game for the club and a big game for him this weekend, being his hundredth,” Pumtree told the Stuff.co.nz website.

Coles is set to play his 100th Super Rugby match for the Hurricanes, while the return of Aso at outside centre would see Jordie Barrett move back to his regular fullback position.

Saturday’s clash at Ellis Park is scheduled for 14:30.