Injuries force Blues to delay line-up

Luke McAlister

The Blues have given themselves extra time to resolve their combination for tomorrow's match at Albany against the Cats.

A minor leg strain for Luke McAlister and further discussion about the locking problems have delayed the team announcement until today.

"We thought we would give the whole thing an extra 24 hours and are hopeful everything will be sorted after the captain's run," coach Peter Sloane said.

Complications have been injuries to locks Greg Rawlinson, Angus Macdonald and the suspension of Ali Williams, while McAlister is wanted for his midfield play and goalkicking.

The Blues settled on former Chiefs and Hurricanes lock Chresten Davis as a replacement. He played in Japan last season but has had little rugby since his return.

"We just don't know how he will handle this level of rugby right now but he has the size, he is going at 115kg," Sloane said.

The alternative is to start hefty loose forward Nick Williams, who filled in strongly at lock last week against the Brumbies.

Should McAlister not start, his place will be taken by Harbour team-mate Rua Tipoki with the goalkicking duties moving to Tasesa Lavea.

The back four who played much better against the Brumbies will be retained, with Mils Muliaina at centre and Isa Nacewa at fullback.