Rugby: Weepu remains on bench

Alby Mathewson has retained the halfback for the Hurricanes' match against the Blues on Friday. Photo / Getty Images

Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper has kept Piri Weepu on the bench, opting to start Willie Ripia at first five and Alby Mathewson at halfback ahead of the All Black for their Super 14 rugby match against the Blues in Wellington on Friday.

Ripia has produced assured performances at No 10 since starting against the Force on April 9, while Weepu nursed a hamstring strain.

Weepu is now fit and prefers to play halfback but Mathewson's form has also been good.

After last week's 56-7 thrashing of the Brumbies, Cooper may be loathe to break up a combination that has guided his side to the top of the table with three straight wins.

Cooper has been forced to make changes to his backline with fullback Cory Jane unavailable because of a calf problem.

Tamati Ellison drops back to No 15 from the wing where he scored a try last week, with Zac Guildford coming on as right wing.

In the locks, Jason Eaton replaces Bryn Evans who was impressive against the Brumbies.

Hurricanes
Tamati Ellison, Zac Guildford, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, David Smith, Willie Ripia, Alby Mathewson, Rodney So'oialo (captain), Scott Waldrom, Victor Vito, Jason Eaton, Jeremy Thrush, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, John Schwalger.

Reserves: Ged Robinson, Jacob Ellison, Bryn Evans, Api Naikatini, Piri Weepu, Jason Kawau, Robert Fruean.

- NZPA