Rugby: Toeava feels lucky despite the job-shuffling

Isaia Toeava says he appreciates the opportunity to play against the Waratahs tonight. Photo / Getty Images

There are times, Isaia Toeava admits, when he would love to collect the same jersey from the dressing room peg.

In an ongoing routine for the 24-year-old that began when he came to the fore in 2005 with his leftfield selection for the All Blacks, Toeava has been shuffled about the backline.

His job description in the official Blues handbook describes him as a utility back although at least this year he has shared his workload between his preferred centre and fullback choices.

Either suits him and he notes he feels fortunate to get a game against the Waratahs in Sydney tonight when other backs such as Luke McAlister, Anthony Tuitavake and George Pisi cannot get a run in the reserves. They are all getting back into trim after injury while Toeava sat out two games as the medical staff sorted out a niggling hip complaint.

"I do like centre or fullback best and I'm getting a bit older now and need to be in one place more," he said.

At one stage it seemed Toeava would be facing an old Chiefs comrade, Soseni Anesi, in the Waratahs No 15 jersey - until a change of thinking brought Kurtley Beale into the fullback frame.

Meanwhile Toeava stays put for the second week while Rene Ranger has another blast at centre for the Blues. His work last week against the Brumbies drew gasps from the visitors, the crowd and Toeava. "I'm glad it was them, not me, having to deal with him. He's a hard man, tough to get on the deck and takes some real stopping."

Toeava had a reputation as a shy man when he first came on the scene and is still reserved unless with close mates. But on the field he has become a useful director.

"At fullback I've got to wait my time to do things while at centre you've got to talk a lot, control the forwards and talk up the defence.

"We started slowly this year against the Hurricanes and then slacked off. We got a great result last week, but the Waratahs will be tough with men like Phil Waugh, Wycliff Palu, Drew Mitchell and Lachie Turner.

"Our attack was great for the Brumbies, but in this game our defence will be crucial.

"We have had the bad habit of scoring tries and then letting the opposition score straightaway. We have to change that."

The Blues also need to sort out their set piece where they have been inconsistent with their scrum and vulnerable in the lineouts. The Waratahs have been similarly variable.

Coach Chris Hickey hopes to ramp up the attack with the inclusion of Beale and Rob Horne at centre to try to find some clout which has deserted them except in their huge win against the porous Lions.

There may also be a game within the game, as rookie Kiwi referee Garratt Williamson takes charge. Waratahs skipper Waugh always challenges officials about their rulings while Keven Mealamu is more selective and restrained in his inquiries.