Changes ahead for Blues, Hurricanes

The Blues today made three changes to their starting 15 for their Super 14 rugby match against neighbours the Chiefs in Auckland on Saturday night.

Saimone Taumoepeau comes in at prop for the injured Tony Woodcock, who tore a calf muscle in the 34-33 loss to the Cats in Johannesburg last weekend.

Lock Ali Williams and halfback John Senio return to the starting line-up, replacing Anthony Boric and Junior Poluleuligaga, who drop to the bench.

Blues:

Brent Ward, Doug Howlett, Ben Atiga, Isa Nacewa, Joe Rokocoko, Luke McAlister, John Senio, Nick Williams, Onosai Tololima-Auva'a, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams, Greg Rawlinson, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Saimone Taumoepeau.

Reserves:

Tim Dow, Mike Noble, Anthony Boric, Kurtis Haiu, Junior Poluleuligaga, Tasesa Lavea, George Pisi.

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Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will be without the steadying influence of David Holwell for the Super 14 rugby match against the Waratahs in Sydney on Saturday night.

The experienced first five-eighth has been ruled out of the match due to an infected knee.

His place has gone to Jimmy Gopperth, who last started for the Hurricanes against the Highlanders on April 16.

That was one of two changes coach Colin Cooper has made to his starting 15, after he today chose to include prop John Schwalger ahead of Joe McDonnell, who drops to the reserves bench.

The match in Sydney is crucial for both teams because the outcome will decide which of the confirmed semifinallists have a home semifinal.

Hurricanes:

Isaia Toeava, Lome Fa'atau, Ma'a Nonu, Tana Umaga, Shannon Paku, Jimmy Gopperth, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo (captain), Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Jason Eaton, Luke Andrews, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, John Schwalger.

Reserves:

Luke Mahoney, Joe McDonnell, Ross Kennedy, Thomas Waldrom, Brendan Haami, Lifeimi Mafi, Tamati Ellison.

- NZPA