Rugby: Savea brothers return for Hurricanes

Ardie Savea of the Hurricanes runs with the ball with Julian Savea in support. Photo / Photosport

Super Rugby's leading try-scorer and the Savea brothers are back in the Hurricanes' side to take on the Blues at Eden Park.

Vince Aso will start at centre in place of Matt Proctor, who misses the match due to concussion, while Julian Savea will take his place on the left wing after being given a week off.

Wes Goosen switches to the right wing.

Ardie Savea, meanwhile, returns at No 8 after straining his calf against the Reds in Brisbane.

Aso and the Savea brothers have scored 16 tries between them so far this season.

Hooker Dane Coles remains on ice, a sore calf delaying his return after missing the last two matches.

"Julian and Vince have both been in great form this season and we always expected them to return to the starting side for the Blues," Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd says.

The Blues have attacking threats across the park and the Hurricanes' defence will need to be much better than it was against the Waratahs last round, Boyd said.

The Blues have named a virtually unchanged side from that which lost to the Highlanders, with Sonny Bill Williams down to start the match in the midfield.

Hurricanes: Jordie Barrett, Wes Goosen, Vince Aso, Ngani Laumape, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara (c), Ardie Savea, Callum Gibbins, Brad Shields, Michael Fatialofa, Mark Abbott, Jeffery To'omaga-Allen, Ricky Riccitelli, Ben May.

Reserves: Leni Apisai, Chris Eves, Mike Kainga, Vaea Fifita, Reed Prinsep, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Otere Black, Cory Jane.

- AAP