Rugby: Blues make three changes for Waratahs

Isaia Toeava has been shifted to centre to make way for Paul Williams at fullback. Photo / Getty Images

The Blues today made three personnel changes to their starting 15 and and reshuffled their backline for their Super 14 rugby match against the Waratahs in Auckland on Friday night.

Paul Williams returns to the run-on side at fullback, after making a comeback from injury in the Blues' 63-34 hammering at the hands of the Chiefs in Hamilton last weekend.

Williams' inclusion means Isaia Toeava goes to centre and Anthony Tuitavake shifts to the wing in place of Rene Ranger, who drops to the bench.

Also going to the bench is inside back Michael Hobbs, who has been the starting second five-eighth for the past two weeks, but trades place with Jamie Helleur against the Waratahs.

In the forwards, Onosa'i Auva'a is elevated to the No 7 jersey in place of Justin Collins, who is out with a hamstring injury.

Prop Tony Woodcock's continuing problem with an ear infection means Tevita Mailau retains the loosehead spot.

Blues
Paul Williams, Anthony Tuitavake, Isaia Toeava, Jamie Helleur, Joe Rokocoko, Jimmy Gopperth, Taniela Moa, Jerome Kaino, Onosa'i Auva'a, Chris Lowrey, Ali Williams, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tevita Mailau.

Reserves - Tom McCartney, Charlie Faumuina, Anthony Boric, Peter Saili, Chris Smylie, Michael Hobbs, Rene Ranger.

- NZPA