Beauden Barrett remains on bench for Blues against Crusaders

Christchurch’s new stadium awaits its second Crusaders home game this week, and its first New Zealand derby as the Blues come to town.

Flanker Anton Segner will celebrate a milestone in the Garden City, with the German-born talent named for his 50th Blues appearance, although it will be off the bench. Malachi Warmpling is back from a brief injury break to start on the blindside flank, with Dalton Papali’i at openside and Hoskins Sotutu at No.8.

In the tight five, Ofa Tu’ungafasi is joined by Bradley Slater and Sam Matenga up front and backed up by Patrick Tuipulotu and Sam Darry in the second row.

In the backs, more starting minutes come the way of Sam Nock and Stephen Perofeta, with Finlay Christie and Beauden Barrett again named on the bench. Pita Ahki and AJ Lam continue their midfield partnership, with Xavi Taele in the reserves as cover. The outside backs will be Caleb Clarke, Kade Banks and Zarn Sullivan.

“You never get the same picture twice against the Crusaders, especially down in Christchurch,” Cotter said.

“They’re a side that prides themselves on their physicality and accuracy, and our focus has been on staying connected to ensure we are at our best for the full 80 minutes.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

29

23

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

100%

Blues team to play the Crusaders

1. Ofa Tu’ungafasi (161)
2. Bradley Slater (7)
3. Sam Matenga (8)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c) (127)
5. Sam Darry (44)
6. Malachi Wrampling (5)
7. Dalton Papali’i (105)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (87)
9. Sam Nock (86)
10. Stephen Perofeta (77)
11. Caleb Clarke (84)
12. Pita Ahki (24)
13. AJ Lam (69)
14. Kade Banks (4)
15. Zarn Sullivan (52)

Reserves

16. James Mullan (13)
17. Mason Tupaea (19)
18. Flyn Yates (1)
19. Laghlan McWhannell (27)
20. Anton Segner (49)
21. Finlay Christie (79)
22. Beauden Barrett (52)
23. Xavi Taele (16)

Injury list

Ben Ake (ankle)
Cameron Christie (knee, season)
Corey Evans (ankle)
Taufa Funaki (shoulder)
Joshua Fusitu’a (bicep)
Jordan Lay (concussion)
Marcel Renata (chest)