Rugby: Blues starting 15 unchanged

Ali Williams. Photo / Getty Images

The Blues will field an unchanged starting 15 when they face the Sharks in a Super 15 rugby match in Durban on Sunday morning (NZT).

Coach Pat Lam has stuck with the same personnel that began the Blues' 24-22 come-from-behind victory over the Crusaders in Auckland last weekend.

However, there are two changes to the reserves bench, with inside back Luke McAlister and lock Kurtis Haiu the additions.

McAlister has recovered from the concussion he suffered in the pre-season match against the Chiefs to take over from Lachie Munro as the back-up first five-eighth to Stephen Brett. Haiu replaces Filo Paulo.

The team is:

Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Jared Payne, Benson Stanley, Rene Ranger, Stephen Brett, Alby Mathewson, Chris Lowrey, Daniel Braid, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams, Anthony Boric, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Tom McCartney, Charlie Faumuina, Kurtis Haiu, Luke Braid, Toby Morland, Luke McAlister, Sherwin Stowers.

- NZPA