Blues give John Senio debut, Toeava at fullback for Canes

John Senio during a Blues training session at Unitec in Auckland today. Phil Walter / Getty Images

Halfback John Senio, originally added to the Blues' squad as an injury replacement, will make his Super 14 debut against the Hurricanes in Auckland on Friday night.

Senio, 23, has been handed the No 9 jersey ahead of Steve Devine after solid performances in pre-season matches.

The brother of All Blacks and Crusaders halfback Kevin Senio, he was called up by the Blues last month to replace David Gibson, whose recurring neck injury ruled him out of the Super 14.

Coach David Nucifora, in naming his side today, has also opted for the versatile Isa Nacewa at fullback instead of former Hurricane Brent Ward.

In the forwards, Nucifora has decided to use the physical presence of Nick Williams on the blindside flank, with Angus Macdonald at No 8.

For the Canes, young Isaia Toeava got the nod at fullback, with Conrad Smith and Tana Umaga partnered in the centres and Ma'a Nonu out on the wing.

Coach Colin Cooper said he had to make some tough selection calls and that some good players missed out on the 15-man team and the 22-man squad.

Halfback Piri Weepu sat out training yesterday with a minor knee injury but coach Cooper named him to start on Friday night.

The match is the first of the Super 14 season.

Blues:
Isa Nacewa, Doug Howlett, Ben Atiga, Luke McAlister, Joe Rokocoko, Tasesa Lavea, John Senio, Angus Macdonald, Daniel Braid, Nick Williams, Greg Rawlinson, Ali Williams, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: Tim Dow, Saimone Taumoepeau, Kurtis Haiu, Justin Collins, Steve Devine, Rua Tipoki, Brent Ward.

Hurricanes:
Isaia Toeava, Lome Fa'atau, Conrad Smith, Tana Umaga, Ma'a Nonu, Jimmy Gopperth, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo, Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Luke Andrews, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Joe McDonnell.
Reserves: Luke Mahoney, Tim Fairbrother, Paul Tito, Thomas Waldrom, Brendan Haami, David Holwell, Shannon Paku.

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB