It's a late start for Keven Mealamu at the Blues again this season, but there's no lack of excitement, due in part to the freshness of a new year.

The arguments for and against resting Tony Woodcock and Keven Mealamu for the Blues' first game of the season against the Highlanders, writes Patrick McKendry.

All Black front-rowers Tony Woodcock and Keven Mealamu will sit out the Blues' opening match of the season against the Highlanders in Dunedin.

Benji, alone, will not be the side's saviour but if the team sparks and his talent begins to flow, the Blues will be an awkward opponent, writes Wynne Gray

When Baden Kerr prepares for a game he knows there is every chance it will end in pain. As a migraine sufferer, the slightest head knock can lead to symptoms.

Amid the hype of Benji Marshall's impending return to Sydney - this time as a rugby player - the man himself appears to have his feet firmly on the ground.

Benji-mania might be sweeping the Blues' fanbase but there were few clues as to which of the three options at first five-eighths will make it to the Super Rugby start line later this month.

John Kirwan says Ma'a Nonu has been a joy to deal with. The player himself has added that he's "pretty motivated" following his return to the Blues.

Ma'a Nonu's return to the Blues after his disastrous season at the Highlanders is likely to be delayed by ankle surgery.

Former All Blacks loose forward Jerome Kaino, about to return home after two years in Japan, says wearing the black jersey again was the main reason for signing with the Blues.

Piri Weepu is easing his way into the new season following knee surgery

The Blues have been dealt a big blow even before the season has begun - Culum Retallick has been ruled out of action for six months, while SBW is said to be joining Counties.

Early fascination about the Blues' second season under John Kirwan's command will be the ideas about Charles Piutau and Benji Marshall, writes Wynne Gray.

Competition for pivotal Blues' No10 jersey as Noakes overcomes potential career threatening injury.

Keven Mealamu is the third All Black to play more than 100 games for the national side.

Ben Lama counts himself as a Blues fanatic - with the proof being his frequent trips to the side's games in Hamilton, Blues jersey and facepaint proudly on display.

Benji Marshall talks to Radio Sport's Mark Richardson about switching codes, moving to New Zealand and where he'd like to start with the Blues.

Top sportsmen like Benji Marshall harness their emotion to power their performance.

Benji Marshall has spoken of his nervousness as swapping league for rugby union at the Blues' Super Rugby squad announcement this morning.