Rugby: Kaino back for Blues

Jerome Kaino. Photo / Getty Images

All Blacks flanker Jerome Kaino will return to Super 15 rugby on Saturday night in one of two changes to the Blues' starting 15 to play the Waratahs in Auckland.

A neck complaint meant Kaino sat out the win over the Cheetahs before the Blues' bye last weekend..

He will back into the No 6 jersey in place of Chris Lowrey, who was today named on the reserves bench.

The other change is also injury-related, with Tevita Mailau inserted at loosehead prop for Tony Woodcock, who is out due to a calf muscle problem.

Meanwhile, coach Pat Lam said lock Ali Williams was in line to be available for selection against the Melbourne Rebels next week.

Williams has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in the 22-22 draw with Western Force in Perth last month.

"Ali is in a really good space and he's helped us with some lineout work today," Lam said.

"He will be training fully and he will be available for selection next weekend."

Blues side:
Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Jared Payne, Luke McAllister, Rene Ranger, Stephen Brett, Albie Mathewson, Peter Saili, Luke Braid, Jerome Kaino, Anthony Boric, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tevita Mailau. Reserves: Tom McCartney, Pauliasi Manu, Filo Paulo, Chris Lowrey, Chris Smylie, Lachie Munro, Benson Stanley.

- NZPA