KEY POINTS:
When the Blues lost the midfield expertise of Luke McAlister and Sam Tuitupou for this Super 14, there were pessimistic forecasts about the franchise being able to replace them successfully.
There was some chat about the multi-versatile Isa Nacewa being the answer and Isaia Toeava or Ben Atiga being moved to cover the departure of their All Blacks.
Murmurs came about the idea of using Benson Stanley, the 23-year-old nephew of former All Black Smokin' Joe Stanley, who had played with such vigour for Auckland as a centre or wing.
After a provincial debut five years ago, Stanley had limited his rugby to club duties while he concentrated on finishing a business degree. But his Auckland form last season suggested to coaches David Nucifora and Greg Cooper, Stanley could be a midfield remedy for the Blues.
That scheme took hold in the Blues' opening trial game but it got scant inspection because Stanley was concussed early and was then spelled for the side's other practice matches.
Come the start of the Super 14, though, and Stanley was at second five-eighths where his powerful running, distribution and defence have caught the eye in successive matches.
"He has been really good. He has impressed me with the homework he does, asking for help and ways to improve his game," backline playmaker Nick Evans said. "I think that is showing on the field. Benson is coming into his own, looking at the defences and helping me out."
Evans has introduced a ploy he and Cooper used with the Highlanders to combat the anticipated slippery, humid conditions they will find in Durban on Sunday when they meet the unbeaten Sharks.
The Blues have dunked practice balls in water to simulate the precision handling they will need with their plans to continue the fast-tempo attacking style which has brought them 18 tries in their opening three games.
The squad had recovered strongly from their last match and manager Ant Strachan indicated changes would be minimal when the side is announced tomorrow.
