Bernie Upton, one of the last players called into the Hurricanes rugby squad, is one of first names read out during team announcements these days.

That may continue for a few more weeks at least, until their All Blacks return from an enforced conditioning period.

By then Upton is hoping he can convince his coaches that he is able to hack it with the best -- both in the lineout and tight play.

He has been impressive as a workhorse in the Hurricanes forwards who normally like to join their adventurous backs in running the ball.

Upton, 1.98m tall and 115kg, provides some balance to the pack with his ability to play a tight game, coach Colin Cooper says.

"He's certainly grown in confidence since he came into the squad and that is reflecting on his game each week."

Cooper's faith in the 25-year-old is exemplified by Upton's selection in all his run-on teams this season.

"I think when your coaches show that kind of confidence in you, you just go the extra mile to make sure you don't let them down," Upton said today.

"That gives you confidence and the guys in the team are so helpful.

"I'm just thankful I get to play."

Upton is keen to gauge his game against some Springboks such as Andries Bekker when they meet the Stormers in Palmerston North on Saturday night in one of the round five games.

"On paper they are the most dangerous South African team. With something like 10 Springboks in the side they will be dangerous, no doubt," Upton said.

He doesn't believe the Hurricanes will let their guard down, particularly when they are about to start on a series of away matches.

The Hurricanes will play Western Force in Perth and then travel to South Africa to meet the Sharks and the Lions in consecutive weekends.

Upton said the Stormers, who have recorded just one win this season from four games, have been unlucky at times.

"I think there has been a number of teams like that -- the Chiefs are definitely one of them -- see how many times the bounce of the ball or a bad decision has taken the game away from them?

"The Stormers are the same. Anyone who watched them scoring those three tries in the last few minutes last week (in the 24-35 loss to the Highlanders) will know the you can't write them off by any stretch of the imagination."