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QUICK TAP: HURRICANES READY FOR KNOCKOUT CLASH AGAINST CHIEFS

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Rico Gear equalled Roff’s 15-try effort in the Crusaders successful 2005 season, while Hurricanes midfielder Ngani Laumape also bagged 15 in 2017.

Ben Lam came flying out of the blocks for the Hurricanes this year with 14 tries before the June break, but has been unable to add to his tally since then. George Bridge has been a silent achiever for the Crusaders this season, notching up 14 tries including a hat-trick in his most recent outing against the Blues.

Waratah’s powerhouse Taqele Naiyaravoro leads the pack on 15 tries this season. At 125kg, Naiyaravoro is unstoppable close to the line and has been ably assisted by a talented inside pairing of Bernard Foley and Kurtley Beale.

Former Hurricanes and Blues halfback Piri Weepu believes that the record will be broken this season.

“All of those boys are great finishers and have a lot of pace, so if you give them an opportunity they are going to make the most of it. I would like to say Lam (will break the record) but I reckon George Bridge will,” said Weepu.

The 21-year-old record could be broken as early as this weekend with all three players in action in the quarterfinals.