Rugby: McAlister's presence no help to battered Blues

Returning All Black Luke McAlister was a keen spectator at Blues training this morning. Photo / Getty Images

Luke McAlister has been a keen spectator at Blues training this morning as he prepares to make his return to New Zealand rugby.

The All Blacks back has returned from his stint with Sale, relishing the chance to get back into Southern Hemisphere rugby. He has committed to the New Zealand Rugby Union until after the 2011 World Cup.

McAlister says the grind of a 10 month Northern Hemisphere season took its toll.

"You learn how to play in different conditions and you're playing with guys that are a bit more reserved so you've sort of got to bite your tongue a bit and try and go with what the team's trying to do," he said.

"In saying that... you still want to play your natural game, which you can't do all the time."

McAlister is no certainty to play for the Barbarians against England at the end of the month as he recovers from a leg injury. He says he is making slow progress in his recovery.

"Still got to see the medical team today and get a verdict on that... I've said to the Barbarians that if it's not right I'm not going to risk it."

The Blues head to Canberra today with a patched-up side. Coach Pat Lam has bracketed a number of players, although prop John Afoa and halfback Chris Smylie have recovered from injuries and return to the side to face the Brumbies.

Flanker Justin Collins was a late scratching after failing to recover from a head knock. His place has been taken by Peter Saili.

Lam says it has been a challenge, particularly in the forward pack.

"It effects the quality of your set piece and obviously effects other areas of the game, but that's just the challenges we always face."

Lock Kurtis Haiu will join the squad tomorrow, with his partner due to give birth today.

Blues
Rudi Wulf, Rene Ranger/Paul Williams, Anthony Tuitavake/Jamie Helleur, Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Jimmy Gopperth, Chris Smylie, Jerome Kaino, Tom Chamberlain, Peter Saili, Kurtis Haiu/Andrew van der Heijden, Jay Williams, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock.

Reserves: Tom McCartney, Charlie Faumuina, Dean Budd, Andrew van der Heijden, Grayson Hart, Jamie Helleur/Winston Stanley, Paul Williams/Dave Thomas.

- NEWSTALK ZB