Blues coach Pat Lam has moved his stand-in captain Luke Braid to No.8 for this week's match against the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Lam has adjusted his loose forwards while also making one injury enforced change to the front row which helped the Blues end their losing streak last weekend against the Lions.

Luke Braid will make his first start of the season at No 8 while Peter Saili is dropped to the bench and promoted second-row specialist Steven Luatua to the blindside flank.

Captain Braid's brother Daniel will start in his more familiar No 7 jersey this week after he started last week at blindside flank.

The only other change is Tevita Mailau replacing Charlie Faumuina who has been ruled out for six weeks with a torn calf muscle

Regular Blues captain Keven Mealamu is still ruled out of rugby with his long-term calf injury.

Blues

Hadleigh Parkes, David Raikuna, Ma'a Nonu, Michael Hobbs, Benson Stanley, Gareth Anscombe, Piri Weepu; Luke Braid (capt), Daniel Braid, Steven Luatua, Ali Williams, Liaki Moli, Tevita Mailau, Tom McCartney, Tony Woodcock.

Replacements : James Parsons, Angus Ta'avao, Filo Paulo, Peter Saili, Alby Mathewson, Lachie Munro, Sherwin Stowers.