The Blues have named captain Patrick Tuipolotu in their match day 23 squad for the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific final against the Chiefs this weekend.
Tuipolotu made a surprise return after he was earlier ruled out for this final following his injury against the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in their quarter final clash two weeks ago.
The 31-year-old tore his medial ligament on his right knee and was ruled out for up to 7 weeks which not only ruled him out of the Super Rugby Pacific semi finals and final but also the All Blacks July tests series.
Surprisingly, the lock forward overcame this injury and was back at training this week and also straight into the starting XVs where he will resume his captaincy role.
The Blues have named a strong lineup for this final as they look to give their fans something to celebrate this weekend.
It has also been reported that it is going to be a sold-out final at Eden Park on Saturday night.
The Blues starting XV:
Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Ricky Riccitelli, Marcel Renata, Patrick Tuipolotu (c), Sam Darry, Akira Ioane, Dalton Papali'i, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Harry Plummer, Caleb Clarke, AJ Lam, Rieko Ioane, Mark Telea and Stephen Perofeta.
Reserves:
Kurt Eklund, Joshua Fusitu'a, Angus Ta'avao, Josh Beehre, Adrian Choat, Taufa Funaki, Bryce Heem and Cole Forbes.
The Blues will take on the Chiefs at 7.05pm on Saturday.
| Date | Time | Team | Team | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
