After a six‑month break, we’re ready for the 2017 Super Rugby season.
Blues coach Tana Umaga has named his team for Thursday’s opener against the Rebels, handing starts to talented brothers Rieko and Akira Ioane.
Dual international Sonny Bill Williams will not be available until about round six.
Also missing are co‑captains James Parsons and Jerome Kaino, while lock Patrick Tuipulotu will also miss the match after recently being cleared to rejoin the squad after a drug scare.
One of last year’s breakout stars Melani Nanai shifts from fullback to the wing to accommodate Michael Collins.
Rieko Ioane shifts to his preferred position at outside centre and joins Piers Francis in the midfield.
As expected, Augustine Pulu partners Ihaia West in the halves.
Umaga has named a strong bench including All Blacks Charlie Faumuina, George Moala and Rene Ranger.
The Blues will meet the Rebels at 8.45pm this Thursday.
BLUES
Michael Collins, Matt Duffie, Rieko Ioane, Piers Francis, Melani Nanai, Ihaia West, Augustine Pulu, Akira Ioane, Blake Gibson, Steven Luatua, Gerard Cowley‑Tuioti, Jimmy Tupou, Sione Mafileo, Matt Moulds, Pauliasi Manu
Reserves: Hame Faiva, Sam Prattley, Charlie Faumuina, Scott Scrafton, Murphy Taramai, Sam Nock, George Moala, Rene Ranger.
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