The Blues have made a single change to their starting XV for Friday’s Super Rugby Pacific semi-final against the Crusaders in Christchurch, with Zarn Sullivan replacing Corey Evans at fullback.
The rest of the game day squad remains unchanged following their quarter-final win over the Chiefs. Led by forwards Patrick Tuipulotu, Dalton Papali’i, and Hoskins Sotutu, and a potent backline including Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and Caleb Clarke, the defending champions are aiming for consecutive Grand Final appearances.
Head coach Vern Cotter said the team is focused, confident, and ready for the challenge against a Crusaders side renowned for their playoff pedigree.
Semi Final team:
- Joshua Fusitu’a (36)
- Ricky Riccitelli (50)
- Marcel Renata (65)
- Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (123)
- Laghlan McWhannell (22)
- Adrian Choat (53)
- Dalton Papali’i (96)
- Hoskins Sotutu (77)
- Finlay Christie (67)
- Beauden Barrett (43)
- Caleb Clarke (74)
- AJ Lam (57)
- Rieko Ioane (127)
- Mark Tele’a (79)
- Zarn Sullivan (41)
Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (74), 17. Jordan Lay (26), 18. Angus Ta’avao (81), 19. Josh Beehre (26), 20. Anton Segner (36), 21. Sam Nock (81), 22. Harry Plummer (88), 23. Cole Forbes (29)
