Rugby: McCartney has his day

Tom McCartney, 23, will get his first start in a game in two seasons. Photo / Getty Images

It has been a long wait. Hooker Tom McCartney has been with the Blues for the past two seasons but never started a match.

That situation looked to continue when new Blues coach Pat Lam confirmed that his most experienced hooker Keven Mealamu would return as captain this season. In all nine games so far, Mealamu has led his side into battle.

And, with the Blues needing results and fortune in their past four games if they are to force their way into the Super 14 play-offs, it seemed Mealamu would continue to lead his side's challenge.

But when Lam announced his side yesterday there was a first start for the 23-year-old McCartney and a couple of other shuffles for the Anzac Day start at North Harbour Stadium.

Seasoned flanker Justin Collins will take over as captain and blindside flanker, pushing Chris Lowrey back to No 8 in place of the damaged Jerome Kaino while Tasesa Lavea returns from his hamstring strain to start at first five-eighths.

All Black lock Ali Williams has proved his fitness again after Achilles tendon troubles and has been chosen to make his comeback at some stage from the bench.

Wing Rene Ranger will not be considered for selection until a police inquiry and a New Zealand Rugby Union misconduct hearing into an incident last weekend in Matakana.

This game will mark midfielder Isaia Toeava's 50th Super rugby appearance and a chance for the Blues to secure three consecutive victories against the Reds who are second to last on the points table. Despite a strong initial outburst of disgust at his team's last performance, Reds coach Phil Mooney has only made changes for injury in his side.