Blues name best available for must-win Waratahs clash

A spot in the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs is on the line in Auckland this weekend, with the reigning champions desperately needing a win to keep their hopes of a repeat alive.

The Waratahs are in town and in the same position as the Blues, currently sitting just outside the top six but still in contention for a playoff berth.

The big news for Auckland fans is the return of Mark Tele’a, who missed the last two games due to suspension after a dangerous tackle against the Reds.

The speedster will play his final game in a Blues jersey at Eden Park in the pivotal round 16 clash, with no chance of a home playoff game on the cards, and a contract in Japan waiting for him at the end of the year.

Adrian Choat will also line up for his final home game with the Blues, having announced early Wednesday his departure at the season’s end. Choat has been named on the bench for the occasion.

Head coach Vern Cotter has made numerous changes to the matchday 23 from the team that fell short against Moana Pasifika in round 14.

Laghlan McWhannell starts in the second row, moving Josh Beehre to the bench. Cam Christie is sidelined with a thumb injury, making way for Anton Segner on the blindside flank.

In the backs, Finlay Christie returns to start at halfback, with Sam Nock offering impact on the bench. Tele’a’s return sees AJ Lam move back into the midfield to pair with Rieko Ioane.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

5

Draws

0

Wins

0

Average Points scored

38

14

First try wins

80%

Home team wins

60%

Blues team to play the Waratahs

1. Joshua Fusitu’a (34)
2. Ricky Riccitelli (48)
3. Marcel Renata (63)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (121)
5. Laghlan McWhannell (20)
6. Anton Segner (34)
7. Dalton Papali’i (94)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (75)
9. Finlay Christie (65)
10. Beauden Barrett (41)
11. Caleb Clarke (72)
12. AJ Lam (55)
13. Rieko Ioane (125)
14. Mark Tele’a (77)
15. Corey Evans (26)

Reserves

16. Kurt Eklund (72)
17. Jordan Lay (24)
18. Angus Ta’avao (79)
19. Josh Beehre (24)
20. Adrian Choat (52)
21. Sam Nock (79)
22. Harry Plummer (86)
23. Cole Forbes (27)