31 May 2012

Nonu back for Blues clash with Chiefs

3:22 pm on 31 May 2012

Midfielder Ma'a Nonu returns to the Blues starting XV for Saturday night's Super Rugby match against the Chiefs in Albany but there's still no room for fellow All Black Piri Weepu who remains on the bench.

With Gareth Anscombe out for the remainder of the season with an ankle sprain, Michael Hobbs will shift in one position to first-five with Nonu coming in to the midfield.

All Black lock Ali Williams is also back in the run on side after making his 100th Blues appearance from the bench.

The return from injury of fullback Rudi Wulf and wing Rene Ranger bolsters the Blues attacking power out wide with Wulf to play his 50th game for the franchise.

Alby Mathewson holds on the halfback jersey ahead of the out of form and out of favour Weepu while James Parsons starts at hooker despite his throwing howler against the Highlanders.

Newly signed lock come flanker continues to stamp his mark on the blindside jersey and has been rewarded with another start at number six.