Blues Team Named For Crucial Force Clash

The Blues have named a refreshed matchday 23 for their crucial Round 12 clash against the Western Force at Eden Park this Friday night.

In the forward pack, Dalton Papali’i returns at openside flanker after recovering from an ankle injury, bringing his experience back into the loose trio alongside Anton Segner and Hoskins Sotutu.

Laghlan McWhannell comes into the second row, partnering with captain Patrick Tuipulotu, while Marcel Renata returns at tighthead prop after missing time with a calf strain.

Hooker Ricky Riccitelli earns a start after a strong showing off the bench in Round 11, with Kurt Eklund moving to the reserves.

In the backline, Taufa Funaki slots in at halfback while Beauden Barrett is back at first five.

Fresh from re-signing with the Blues for another season, 20-year-old Xavi Taele will start at second five, with AJ Lam shifting to the left wing in the absence of the suspended Mark Tele’a.

Cole Forbes retains his spot on the right wing, while Stephen Perofeta comes in at fullback.

It will be an extra special night for flanker Adrian Choat, who is set to come off the bench in his 50th game for the Blues.

Head coach Vern Cotter said his side is looking to make a statement in front of their home fans.

“The Force are another very good team and we need to lift our intensity to ensure we compete well against them on Friday night,” he said.

“Being consistent across these next four games is really important for us and I know every one of us is working hard to step up.”

Blues Team for Round 12
7.05pm, Friday 2 May vs Western Force

1. Joshua Fusitu’a (31)
2. Ricky Riccitelli (45)
3. Marcel Renata (60)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (118)
5. Laghlan McWhannell (17)
6. Anton Segner (32)
7. Dalton Papali’i (91)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (73)
9. Taufa Funaki (30)
10. Beauden Barrett (38)
11. AJ Lam (52)
12. Xavi Taele (2)
13. Rieko Ioane (122)
14. Cole Forbes (24)
15. Stephen Perofeta (72)

Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (69), 17. Mason Tupaea (5), 18. Angus Ta’avao (76), 19. Josh Beehre (21), 20. Cam Christie (6), 21. Adrian Choat (49), 22. Sam Nock (78), 23. Corey Evans (22)

Players not considered due to injury: Caleb Clarke (thigh), Reon Paul (shoulder), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season), Sam Darry (shoulder, season).

© Scoop Media