Four changes for Blues

All Blacks Doug Howlett and Tony Woodcock will this weekend make their first Rebel Sport Super 12 starts of the new season.

Howlett and Woodcock have been confirmed in the Blues starting side to play the Chiefs in Hamilton on Friday night.

Howlett has recovered from hamstring problems, with Woodcock back after suffering a foot gash in the pre-season.

The Blues have made four changes in total - Steve Devine starts at halfback ahead of David Gibson, Derren Witcombe replaces Keven Mealamu at hooker, Woodcock comes in for Saimone Taumoepeau and Howlett replaces Isa Nacewa.

Lock Brad Mika makes the Blues bench for the first time in the new season.

The starting side is: Tony Woodcock, Derren Witcombe, John Afoa, Greg Rawlinson, Ali Williams, Angus MacDonald, Daniel Braid, Xavier Rush, Steve Devine, Carlos Spencer, Joe Rokocoko, Sam Tuitupou, Luke McAlister, Doug Howlett and Mils Muliaina.

The reserves are: Keven Mealamu, Taufa'ao Filise, Brad Mika, Justin Collins, David Gibson, Tasesa Lavea and Isa Nacewa.

- NEWSTALK ZB