The Blues have made several changes for their Super Rugby Pacific semi final showdown against the Hurricanes tonight in Wellington.
Beauden Barrett returns to start at fullback, while Hoskins Sotutu joins the starting XV at number eight and Finlay Christie slots in at halfback.
In the midfield, Xavi Taele has been named at second five with AJ Lam shifting back to centre and Cole Forbes on the right wing.
The Blues will be without three players from last week’s team with Zarn Sullivan ruled out with a foot injury, Sam Nock sidelined with a broken hand and Malachi Wrampling unavailable through concussion and suspension.
Head coach Vern Cotter says his side is excited by the opportunity ahead of them.
Cotter says they know what’s waiting for them in Wellington and they’re excited about the challenge.
He says finals rugby is about embracing that and earning the right to keep your season alive.
The Hurricanes will play the Blues in the second semi-final tonight at 7.05pm.
The winner will face the Chiefs in the final next Saturday.
Source: Blues Rugby
