Blowers takes a step up to lead against Wellington

Andrew Blowers' significance in Auckland's scheme of things took another step forward yesterday when he was named captain for tomorrow night's clash with Wellington.

Regular captain Sam Tuitupou is with the All Blacks in South Africa so No 8 Blowers, who has been in strong form, becomes Auckland's fourth captain in as many games in the Air New Zealand Cup.

He follows Nick White, Steve Devine and Tuitupou in leading Auckland out.

But those who will follow him will be vastly different from the side who beat Bay of Plenty 45-27 last weekend.

The entire front row is changed - Devine and Isa Nacewa behind the scrum have been replaced by Taniela Moa and Tasesa Lavea, back from a hamstring injury, openside flanker Daniel Braid is replaced by Onosai Tololima-Auva'a, and Kurtis Haiu loses his locking spot to Joe Tekori, joining a five forwards-two backs bench.

Despite the score, Lam wasn't happy with aspects of the win over the Bay.

"It's just about individuals showing up to play for the team really," he said. "We just didn't play as a team. Again, I am talking in comparison to what we have done so far in terms of attitude."

Wellington coach John Plumtree has also reworked his lineup.

Ma'a Nonu is back with his broken thumb mended to partner Conrad Smith in midfield, and Tamati Ellison gets a chance at first five-eighths with Jimmy Gopperth on the bench.

* Sione Lauaki gets a start at No 8 for Waikato against Counties Manukau in Hamilton tomorrow.

Captain Steven Bates moves to openside flank, Liam Messam to No 6 and Marty Holah is having a game off.

Lock Mark Burman gets a chance replacing the impressive Toby Lynn, who has a side strain.

* Bay of Plenty coach Andre Bell has changed his loose forward trio for the game against Manawatu in Rotorua.

Talented No 8 Colin Bourke is back for his first start of the season, Tanerau Latimer shifts to openside flanker and Nili Latu is relegated to the bench.