Blues name strong trial side

Blues coach Pat Lam has named close to his strongest possible side for tomorrow's final pre-season Super 14 match against the Crusaders in Motueka.

Prop Tony Woodcock will make his first appearance for the Blues this year to complete an All Black trio in the front row. North Harbour lock Filo Paulo will wear the number five jersey in the absence of the injured Ali Williams.

Isaia Toeava and Benson Stanley team up in the midfield, with the former Wellington pairing of Alby Mathewson and Daniel Kirkpatrick the halfback and first five-eighths combination.

Blues
Paul Williams, Rene Ranger, Isaia Toeava, Benson Stanley, Joe Rokocoko, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Alby Mathewson, Viliami Ma'afu, Serge Lilo, Jerome Kaino, Filo Paulo, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Tom McCartney, Tevita Mailau, Peter Saili, Tom Chamberlain, Chris Smylie, Stephen Brett, Rudi Wulf.

- NEWSTALK ZB