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The Blues play host to the Hurricanes at Eden Park, as New Zealand referee Nick Briant takes the reins in his first Super Rugby game of 2016. Join The Roar from 5:35pm (AEDT) for live scores and commentary.
Both teams suffered losses in Round 2, the Hurricanes went down by one point to the Highlanders in a rematch of last year’s final, while the Blues were overpowered by the Crusaders 28-13 at AMI Stadium.
Following the loss in Christchurch, Blues coach Tana Umaga has made nine changes.
Charlie Faumuina moves back into the number 3 jersey at the expense of Sione Mafileo, which captain Jerome Kaino said is a massive boost for set pieces, although he tempered expectations on his All Black teammate.
“It’s not about one man – it’s about an eight-man scrum and an eight-man lineout,” Kaino said.
“We all need to buy into that. Having him starting this weekend is huge. He adds a lot to the pack and hopefully we can all feed off that.”
Additional changes for the men from Auckland include another All Black, Steven Luatua, starting at lock. As a result Patrick Tuipulotu, who has been impressive in his last two starts after returning from the injury that derailed his World Cup campaign, is on the bench.
Bryn Hall and Ihaia West return to the halves after being benched against the Crusaders. Akira Ioane will make his first starting appearance at the back of the scrum, while outside centre Male Sa’u and fullback Lolagi Visinia return.
“We think this is the best side to go up against the Hurricanes and get us a result,” Umaga said.
Down the other end of the North Island, the Hurricanes have started, somewhat unexpectedly, with a 0-2 record. Not helping their cause is the continued absence of hooker and captain Dane Coles, who will also miss this fixture.
Injury clouds were also hovering over Nehe Milner-Skudder and Cory Jane, but both have been cleared to play.
The last clash between these two sides was Round 15, 2015, when the Hurricanes ran out winners.
Prediction
Without Coles, the Blues will be too strong for the Canes.
Blues by 3.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.