The Blues injury woes have already started before the 2018 Super Rugby season has kicked off.
Already down a first five‑eighth with Otere Black ruled out with a knee injury, the Blues will be without fellow number 10 Stephen Perofeta for up to six weeks after he broke his hand during his side's pre‑season win over the Chiefs last week.
The Blues first match is less than three weeks away against the Highlanders meaning back up first‑fives, Bryn Gatland and Dan Kirkpatrick, will fight it out for the starting spot.
Blues coach Tana Umaga has ruled out the franchise making a play for former Wallabies No 10 Quade Cooper, who is on the outer at the Queensland Reds and has been spotted around Auckland in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, the Blues also confirmed today All Blacks Akira Ioane and George Moala will join former first‑five Carlos Spencer in their team to contest the Brisbane Global 10s tournament this weekend.
Blues team for Brisbane 10s: Caleb Clarke, Kurt Ecklund, Jordan Hyland, Akira Ioane, Antonio Kirikiri, Orbyn Leger, George Moala, Melanai Nanai, Sam Nock, Jordan Olsen, Dalton Papalii, Jacob Pierce, Marcel Renata, Jonathan Ruru, Hoskins Sotutu, Carlos Spencer, Michael Tamoaeita, Murphy Taramai, Tanielu Telea, Jordan Trainor, Tamati Tua, Jimmy Tupou (c).
Source: Radio NZ
