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KEY POINTS:
Tasesa Lavea has been selected at first five-eighth for the Blues' opening Super 14 match with the Force in Perth on Friday.
Blues coach Pat Lam says he has been chosen over the team's other No 10 option, Jimmy Gopperth, because he better suits the game plan.
"We just think for this particular game, that Tasesa's the right person to start for us. And obviously Jimmy's there on the bench."
Lam says selecting the starting No 10 will be a "week to week thing".
Rene Ranger will debut on the left wing, while Chris Lowrey will make his first Super 14 start at number eight.
There are four uncapped players on the bench with Charlie Faumuina, Dean Budd, Peter Saili and Jamie Helleur in line to make their first appearances in Super rugby.
Josh Blackie is with the team for the first time after returning from Japan, but will not play this week.
Blues
Paul Williams, Anthony Tuitavake, Isaia Toeava, Benson Stanley, Rene Ranger, Tasesa Lavea, Taniela Moa, Chris Lowrey, Onosa'i Auva'a, Justin Collins, Anthony Boric, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: Tom McCartney, Charlie Faumuina, Dean Budd, Peter Saili, Chris Smiley, Jimmy Gopperth, Jamie Helleur.
- NEWSTALK ZB
