Blues coach Tana Umaga has made seven changes to his starting side for their Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes on Friday.
Following the Blues 28‑13 loss to the Crusaders last week, Umaga has opted to move Steven Luatua into lock, pushing Patrick Tuipulotu to the bench while All Black prop Charlie Faumuina will make his first start of the year in the number three jersey.
Umaga said he always planned on making a number of changes for the match against the Hurricanes and believes this side is his best chance of a win.
The Blues face the Hurricanes at 6.35pm Friday.
Blues team to face the Hurricanes at Eden Park on Friday is:
Ofa Tu'ungafasi
James Parsons
Charlie Faumuina
Steven Luatua
Josh Bekhuis
Jerome Kaino ©
Blake Gibson
Akira Ioane
Bryn Hall
Ihaia West
Tevita Li
George Moala
Male Sa'u
Rene Ranger
Lolagi Visinia.
Reserves:
Quentin MacDonald
Nic Mayhew
Sione Mafileo
Patrick Tuipulotu
Kara Pryor
Billy Guyton
Matt McGahan
Melani Nanai
Source: TVNZ
