Daniel Kirkpatrick will make his first start for the Blues in one of eight changes to the starting XV for this weekend's clash with the Lions.
An injury cloud surrounds regular first five-eighths Stephen Brett who has been unable to train all week and has been bracketed on the bench with George Pisi.
Isaia Toeava returns to fullback after playing centre last week, with Rene Ranger moving into the number 13 spot as Paul Williams switches to the wing.
Peter Saili is preferred to start at number eight in place of Viliami Ma’afu, while Serge Lilo resumes his starting position ahead of Tom Chamberlain and Anthony Boric replaces Filo Paulo.
Blues captain Keven Mealamu has failed to shake off a hamstring strain sustained against the Sharks in round 11 as Tom McCartney makes his second successive start at hooker and Jerome Kaino continues his role as skipper.
Blues team :
15. Isaia Toeava, 14. Joe Rokocoko, 13. Rene Ranger, 12. Benson Stanley, 11. Paul Williams, 10. Daniel Kirkpatrick, 9. Alby Mathewson, 8. Peter Saili, 7. Serge Lilo, 6. Jerome Kaino, 5. Anthony Boric, 4. Kurtis Haiu, 3. John Afoa, 2. Tom McCartney, 1. Tony Woodcock
16. Tevita Mailau, 17. Charlie Faumuina, 18. Filo Paulo, 19. Vilami Ma’afu, 20. Chris Smylie, 21. Stephen Brett / George Pisi, 22. Anthony Tuitavake
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