nib BLUES NAMED FOR BLOCKBUSTER MATATU CLASH
The nib Blues have been named for a top-of-the-table Super Rugby Aupiki clash against Matatū in Christchurch on Saturday.
With the competition entering its final round of the regular season, a victory over Matatū would secure the nib Blues a place in next weekend’s final.
Head coach Willie Walker has made several changes, with Dajian Brown coming in to start at openside flanker, while Taufa Bason and Ffion Penney have been named on the bench.
Captain Maiakawanakaulani Roos again leads a powerful forward pack, and will run out in her 100th first class match across Super Rugby Aupiki, Black Ferns and Farah Palmer Cup.
Fellow lock Eloise Blackwell is also in line for a potential milestone, coming off the bench to become the second most capped Kiwi female rugby player, surpassing Kendra Cocksedge (both currently 172 first class matches).
The Blues know they will face a tough challenge against a Matatū side that has produced an outstanding campaign of their own and sit at the top of the table going into Round 6.
nib Blues Team - Round 6 vs Matatū
2.35pm (NZT), Saturday 18 July in Christchurch
1. Chryss Viliko
2. Atlanta Lolohea
3. Aldora Itunu
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (c)
5. Maama Vaipulu
6. Amarante Sititi
7. Dajian Brown
8. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u
9. Tara Turner
10. Ruahei Demant
11. Jaymie Kolose
12. Hollyrae Mete-Renata
13. Sylvia Brunt
14. Mererangi Paul
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee
Reserves: 16. Grace Gago, 17. Nijiho Nagata, 18. Harono Te Iringa, 19. Eloise Blackwell, 20. Taufa Bason, 21. Ffion Penney, 22. Katelyn Vahaakolo, 23. Hazel Tubic
Unavailable for selection: Ella Henderson (concussion), Cheyenne Tuli-Fale (back)