3 Jul 2014

Charles Piutau back for Blues

11:39 am on 3 July 2014

The Blues will be boosted by the return of All Black Charles Piutau for their must-win Super Rugby match against the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Charles Piutau at Blues training

Charles Piutau at Blues training Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Piutau hasn't played since suffering a knee injury two months ago which kept him out of the All Blacks series against England.

He will start on the left wing, replacing George Moala, with Lolagi Visinia keeping his spot at fullback.

The hooker Keven Mealamu has been named to start and will become the first player to play 150 games for the Blues.

The Blues need to win to keep their chances of reaching the playoffs alive.

Blues:

15. Lolagi Visinia

14. Frank Halai

13. Pita Ahki

12. Ma'a Nonu

11. Charles Piutau

10. Ihaia West

9. Bryn Hall

8. Jerome Kaino

7. Luke Braid (C)

6. Steven Luatua

5. Tom Donnelly

4. Patrick Tuipulotu

3. Charlie Faumuina

2. Keven Mealamu

1. Tony Woodcock

Reserves

16. James Parsons

17. Ofa Tu'ungafasi

18. Sam Prattley

19. Hayden Triggs

20. Peter Saili

21. Jamison Gibson-Park

22. Francis Saili

23. George Moala