The Hurricanes have given the keys to teenage star Ruben Love to try and drive his side to victory against the Crusaders this weekend.

19 year old Love was a former schoolboy star at Palmerston North Boys High School, and will replace Orbyn Leger at first five-eighth in the Hurricanes starting side.

Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland described Love as an "exciting" player and backed him in what will be a tough debut assignment against Richie Mo'unga.

The Chiefs will take on the Highlanders at 7.05pm tomorrow and the Hurricanes will face the Crusaders at 3.35pm Sunday.