Zarn Sullivan starts, captain's brother could debut in Blues team with a twist

A couple of new faces headline the Blues’ team naming for their grudge match with the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Zarn Sullivan has been named at fullback for the contest, pushing Corey Evans to the wing after starting at 15 over recent weeks. Evans’ shift helps cover Caleb Clarke’s absence due to a thigh injury.

There’s also a potential debut for Hamdahn Tuipolotu, brother of Blues captain Patrick, who has been selected in the No. 18 jersey.

Blues coach Vern Cotter hasn’t stopped there with his changes though, also opting for a 6/2 bench split for the match.

That choice sees both Adrian Choat and utility forward Cameron Suafoa make the bench unit, while Harry Plummer offers plenty of versatility in the No. 23 jersey.

“We have improved each week, but we know we still have plenty of space to get better,” head coach Vern Cotter said.

“The group is challenging each other to improve every day, every session and every game.  A strong team performance against a confident Crusaders team will be key on Friday night.”

Blues team to face the Crusaders

1. Joshua Fusitu’a (29)
2. Ricky Riccitelli (43)
3. Angus Ta’avao (74)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (capt) (116)
5. Josh Beehre (19)
6. Anton Segner (30)
7. Dalton Papali’i (90)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (71)
9. Finlay Christie (62)
10. Beauden Barrett (36)
11. Mark Tele’a (75)
12. AJ Lam (50)
13. Rieko Ioane (120)
14. Cole Forbes (22)
15. Zarn Sullivan (38)

Reserves

16. Kurt Eklund (67)
17. Mason Tupaea (3)
18. Hamdahn Tuipolotu (debut)
19. Laghlan McWhannell (15)
20. Cameron Suafoa (30)
21. Adrian Choat (48)
22. Taufa Funaki (29)
23. Harry Plummer (82)