The Braid brothers, Daniel and Luke, make a welcome return to the Blues' starting line-up to meet the Sharks in Auckland on Friday, with the loose-forward duo pairing up for the first time in a month.
Daniel was forced to withdraw from the team during the pre-match warm-up last week due to illness and Luke has been sitting out a three-week suspension incurred during the Stormers match in South Africa.
"It's good to have both Braid brothers returning. Luke's work ethic and experience at the breakdown working alongside Dan is crucial to our game," Blues coach Pat Lam said.
Young Auckland lock Liaki Moli has earned his first start of the season, having recovered from illness last week that saw him sit out most of the match on the bench.
"Liaki and Filo Paulo have taken their opportunities when on the field. They provide fresh legs and energy and deserve their starting spots. Ali has started every game so far - this week he'll come off the bench."
