Rugby: Mathewson back for Blues

Alby Mathewson. Photo / Getty Images

The return of halfback Alby Mathewson is the sole change to the Blues' starting 15 to face the New South Wales Waratahs in a Super 15 rugby semifinal qualifier in Auckland on Friday night.

Mathewson began the Blues' win over the Highlanders last Friday night on the bench after having received a head knock in the previous round.

There is also one change on the bench, with All Black flanker Daniel Braid coming back into the squad after an extended spell on the sidelines with neck and hamstring injuries.

Braid - whose younger brother, Luke, has retained the No 7 jersey - came through 40 minutes of Auckland club rugby last weekend.

Blues: 15 Jared Payne, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Benson Stanley, 12 Luke McAlister, 11 Lachie Munro, 10 Stephen Brett, 9 Alby Mathewson, 8 Peter Saili, 7 Luke Braid, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Ali Williams, 4 Anthony Boric, 3 John Afoa, 2 Keven Mealamu (captain), 1 Charlie Faumuina.

Reserves: Tom McCartney, Tevita Mailau, Chris Lowrey, Daniel Braid, Chris Smylie, Winston Stanley, Sherwin Stowers.

- NZPA