The Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett concedes next year will be about rebuilding after the franchise lost another All Black with halfback Piri Weepu confirming he'll join Ma'a Nonu at the Blues for the 2012 Super Rugby season.
Weepu is the latest All Black to abandon the franchise after a tumultuous year alongside fellow All Blacks Nonu, Andrew Hore and Aaron Cruden.
The Hurricanes have now lost their first choice halfback, first and second five's and with All Black wingers Cory Jane and Hosea Gear yet to re-sign their backline is looking green to say the least.
Hammett concedes Weepu's snub is a major blow, but he believes the franchise has a bright future with plenty of young talent within the Hurricanes group.
