The Blues are gearing up for a big game against the Highlanders during the DHL Super Rugby Pacific’s ‘Super Round’ in Melbourne.
Key players Ofa Tu’ungafasi and Akira Ioane are making their comeback to the team, a move that Head Coach Vern Cotter believes will greatly impact the game.
Tu’ungafasi is set to join a newly-formed front row, aiming to deepen the squad’s capabilities in the tight forward department. Formidable loose forward Ioane is also expected to make a strong impact.
Other changes include Laghlan McWhannell stepping in as lock after impressing during the preseason with Josh Beehre’s recent performance satisfying the team’s depth in the second row.
In the backs Taufa Funaki will be starting as halfback, with Bryce Heem and AJ Lam playing in the midfield, bringing their unique skills and experiences to the team. The game in the ‘Super Round’ will take place on Friday night at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
Team list
- Ofa Tu’ungafasi
- Ricky Riccitelli
- Marcel Renata
- Laghlan McWhannell
- Sam Darry
- Akira Ioane
- Dalton Papali’i (c)
- Hoskins Sotutu
- Taufa Funaki
- Stephen Perofeta
- Caleb Clarke
- Bryce Heem
- AJ Lam
- Mark Tele’a
- Zarn Sullivan
- 16. Soane Vikena
- Joshua Fusitu’a
- Angus Ta’avao
- Josh Beehre
- Adrian Choat
- Sam Nock
- Harry Plummer
- Cole Forbes
