KEY POINTS:
Blues coach David Nucifora has chosen Sam Tuitupou as second five-eighth ahead of fellow All Black Luke McAlister for his side's Super 14 rugby opener against the Crusaders at Eden Park on Friday night.
Nucifora cited fitness as a key factor in his decision to select Tuitupou.
"Luke McAlister did not join the squad until late January so he is not at full match fitness yet. I felt that as Sam Tuitupou has been training with the squad since we first assembled last year, he deserved to start against the Crusaders," Nucifora said today.
"However, Luke will come off the bench as an important tactical change at some point during the match."
Isa Nacewa has been preferred at first five-eighth, with David Holwell omitted from the playing squad for the Crusaders clash.
"Isa played well against the Reds and the Chiefs and tactically suits our game plan for Friday night. David Holwell's opportunity will definitely come during the season."
Nucifora said choosing Anthony Tuitavake on the wing with Isaia Toeava at centre was a difficult choice.
"Both have been playing very well in the pre-season matches. I went with Anthony on the wing because he has good experience at this level and played in that position last year as a Junior All Black."
Nucifora said he had an "exciting back three combination" with George Pisi preferred at fullback ahead of Ben Atiga.
"George's time has arrived to play at this level. He spent a full season last year preparing for this opportunity. He has played well throughout the trial games and is ready to go."
Blues: George Pisi, Doug Howlett, Isaia Toeava, Sam Tuitupou, Anthony Tuitavake, Isa Nacewa, David Gibson, Jerome Kaino, Daniel Braid, Angus Macdonald, Troy Flavell (captain), Greg Rawlinson, John Afoa, Derren Witcombe, Saimone Taumoepeau. Reserves: Rudi Wulf, Luke McAlister, Steve Devine, Justin Collins, Anthony Boric, Nick White, Chris Heard.
- NZPA
