nib BLUES NAMED FOR AUPIKI ALL IN ROUND

The nib Blues have named a largely unchanged side for their top-of-the-table match against Matatū in Pukekohe on Saturday.

The match forms part of Super Rugby Aupiki All In Round in Pukekohe with all four teams in action.

The Blues have made just one change to the starting XV that defeated Chiefs Manawa in Round 2, with loose forward Amarante Sititi returning to the starting side after completing concussion protocols.

There is a further boost on the bench with prop Cilia-Marie Po'e Tofaeono also returning following a concussion in Round 1.

Saturday’s match also marks a significant milestone for tighthead prop Aldora Itunu, who will make her 20th appearance for the Blues.

Led by captain Maiakawanakaulani Roos, who earlier this week re-signed with the nib Blues and NZ Rugby through 2029, the Blues will look to build on their early season momentum.

The game kicks off at 7.05pm on Saturday, following on from Chiefs Manawa vs Hurricanes Poua at 4.45pm.

nib Blues Team - Round 3 vs Matatū
7.05pm (NZT), Saturday 27 June in Pukekohe

1. Glory Aiono
2. Atlanta Lolohea
3. Aldora Itunu (20th game)
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (c)
5. Eloise Blackwell
6. Amarante Sititi
7. Taufa Bason
8. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u
9. Tara Turner
10. Ruahei Demant
11. Jaymie Kolose
12. Sylvia Brunt
13. Mererangi Paul
14. Katelyn Vahaakolo
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee

Reserves: 16. Grace Gago, 17. Nijiho Nagata, 18. Cilia-Marie Po’e Tofaeono, 19. Tafito Lafaele, 20. Danny-Elle Fesolai, 21. Ffion Penney, 22. Hazel Tubic, 23. Hollyrae Mete-Renata

Unavailable for selection: Ella Henderson (concussion), Cheyenne Tuli-Fale (back), Maama Vaipulu (suspension), Chryss Viliko (knee)