Fresh off the back of their first win of the season, the Blues are facing a minor injury crisis ahead of their Super Rugby clash against the Highlanders on Saturday.
The pressure only keeps increasing on Blues coach Sir John Kirwan Photo: Photosport
The concussion issue has again reared its head with Luke Braid expected to be sidelined for a week.
The flanker suffered the injury during the side's 16-14 victory over the Brumbies at Eden Park last weekend.
Halfback Bryn Hall will be out a further five weeks with a foot injury, while Tony Woodcock, Melani Nanai and George Moala have all been bracketed and will be further assessed by Friday morning.
All Black Steven Luatua has been rested by coach Sir John Kirwan, giving former NZ Sevens loose forward Akira Ioane the chance to debut.
NZ U20 player Blake Gibson comes out of the reserves to fill the squad.
Jimmy Cowan returns to team after birth of his second child.
The team to face the Highlanders:
1. Ofa Tu'ungafasi
2. James Parsons
3. Angus Ta'avao
4. Josh Bekhuis
5. Patrick Tuipulotu
6. Akira Ioane
7. Brendon O'Connor
8. Jerome Kaino (C)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park
10. Dan Bowden
11. Melani Nanai
12. George Moala
13. Pita Ahki
14. Frank Halai
15. Charles Piutau
Reserves:
16. Keven Mealamu
17. Tony Woodcock
18. Charlie Faumuina
19. Hayden Triggs
20. Blake Gibson
21. Jimmy Cowan
22. Ihaia West
23. Francis Saili
