Rugby: Cowan gets nod at halfback for Blues

Jimmy Cowan of the Blues. Photo / Getty Images.

Former All Black Jimmy Cowan will start at halfback for the Blues against the Chiefs at North Harbour on Saturday.

Cowan's impressive start at the franchise has continued with his selection over Bryn Hall and Jamison Gibson-Park, coach John Kirwan saying Cowan's experience would be key against what is a relatively youthful Chiefs team.

Midfielder George Moala, nursing a medial ligament injury, has been bracketed with newcomer Hamish Northcott. No12 Francis Saili has been given the task of marking Sonny Bill Williams.

All Black Charles Piutau will start on the right wing, with Lolagi Visinia named at fullback. Ihaia West has won the No10 jersey.

For the Chiefs there is no Aaron Cruden or Brodie Retallick. Matt Symons, a 25-year-old lock who made his Super Rugby debut last year, will captain the team.

"They are touted to be champions and have had the measure of us for the last couple of years," said Kirwan. "We know it's going to be a huge game for us. It always is."

Blues team to play the Chiefs at QBE Stadium on Saturday, kick-off 7.35pm is: Lolagi Visinia, Charles Piutau, George Moala or Hamish Northcott, Francis Saili, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan, Jerome Kaino (c), Brendon O'Connor, Steven Luatua, Hayden Triggs, Josh Bekhuis, Angus Ta'avao, James Parsons, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Matt Moulds, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Charlie Faumuina, Akira Ioane, Luke Braid, Jamison Gibson-Park, Simon Hickey, Hamish Northcott or Ben Lam.

Chiefs: Tom Marshall, Tim Nanai-Williams, Charlie Ngatai, Sonny Bill Williams, James Lowe, Damian McKenzie, Brad Weber, Maama Vaipulu, Sam Cane, Johan Bardoul, Michael Fitzgerald, Matt Symons (c), Ben Tameifuna, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu. Reserves: Rhys Marshall, Jamie Mackintosh, Siate Tokolahi, Michael Allardice, Tevita Koloamatangi, Augustine Pulu, Marty McKenzie, Bryce Heem.