Blues team to face Hurricanes

Michael Hobbs has been handed the number 10 jersey for Friday night’s encounter with the Hurricanes at Westpac Stadium (kick-off 7.35pm).

The Wellington first five-eighths has been promoted from the bench to take on many of his provincial teammates in one of three changes to the starting XV.

Rising star Gareth Anscombe has been dropped from the 22 altogether following a mixed performance against the Reds last week, with Lachie Munro set to provide cover on the bench.

Blues head coach Pat Lam has reshuffled his backline, with Benson Stanley returning to centre as Rene Ranger shifts out to the wing in place of Rudi Wulf who has failed to overcome a shoulder injury.

In the forwards, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock have also been unable to shrug off their calf injuries as Tevita Mailau and Tom McCartney remain in the starting XV.

Captain Luke Braid shifts from blindside to openside flanker, with Chris Lowrey starting at blindside in place of Daniel Braid.

Unavailable due to injury: Keven Mealamu, Jerome Kaino, Isaia Toeava, Anthony Boric, Tony Woodcock, Rudi Wulf, Brad Mika

 

Tevita Mailau
Tom McCartney
Charlie Faumuina
Filo Paulo
Ali Williams
Chris Lowrey
Luke Braid ©
Peter Saili
Piri Weepu
Michael Hobbs
George Moala
Ma’a Nonu
Benson Stanley
Rene Ranger
Hadleigh Parkes
 

James Parsons
Angus Ta’avao
Liaki Moli
Daniel Braid
Alby Mathewson
Lachie Munro
David Raikuna