The beleagured Blues have been able to name brothers Daniel and Luke Braid for the first time in a month in their starting line up to face the Sharks in Auckland this Friday.

Daniel was forced to withdraw from the team during pre-match warm-up last week due to illness and Luke has been sitting out a three week suspension incurred during the Stormers match in South Africa.

"It's good to have both Braid brothers returning. Luke's work ethic and experience at the breakdown working alongside Dan is crucial to our game," said Blues coach Pat Lam.

Young Auckland lock Liaki Moli has earned his first start of the season, having recovered from illness last week that saw him sit most of the match out on the bench.

"Liaki and Filo Paulo have taken their opportunities when on the field. They provide fresh legs and energy and deserve their starting spots. Ali has started every game so far - this week he'll come off the bench."

Another rookie gets his place in the starting XV - Hadleigh Parkes has been named on the right wing.

"Hadleigh has been in the 22 for a number of weeks. He is a real workhorse with a good boot on him and will give everything for the team out there. He's thrilled to be starting and will bring plenty of energy to what's going to be a very tough encounter."

Blues

1. Tony Woodcock 2. Keven Mealamu (C) 3. Charlie Faumuina 4. Liaki Moli 5. Filo Paulo 6. Luke Braid 7. Dan Braid 8. Chris Lowrey 9. Alby Mathewson 10. Gareth Anscombe 11. Rene Ranger 12. Ma'a Nonu 13. Benson Stanley 14. Hadleigh Parkes 15. Rudi Wulf

16. Tom McCartney 17. Tevita Mailau 18. Ali Williams 19. Peter Saili 20. Piri Weepu 21. Michael Hobbs 22. George Moala