Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd says there will be no lack of motivation from his squad when they face the Rebels in Melbourne in a Super Rugby warm-up match.
The Hurricanes have 16 players missing either through international commitments or because they are unable to travel.
Their absence means an opportunity for others in a match that will be played over four quarters on Thursday night.
"Guys on the fringe have a bit to prove and some guys who haven't played for the Hurricanes yet this season certainly have a chance to put their hand up," he said.
"For some of the more senior members of the team, it's a matter of just going out and getting back into serious footy."
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The 26-strong travelling squad includes former Highlanders midfielder Shaun Treeby, who has joined the Hurricanes on a short-term contract as injury cover.
The Hurricanes host the Blues when Super Rugby returns in the first weekend of July.
Hurricanes: James Marshall, Cory Jane, Matt Proctor, Vince Aso, Jason Woodward, Otere Black, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Victor Vito, Hugh Renton, Brad Shields, Michael Fatialofa, Mark Abbott, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Ricky Riccitelli, Reggie Goodes. Res: James O'Reilly, Loni Uhila, Chris Eves, Hisa Sasagi, Ben May, Geoff Cridge, James Blackwell, Jamison Gibson-Park, Shaun Treeby, Willis Halaholo, Wes Goosen.
