Fractured hand keeps Rieko Ioane on sidelines

New Zealand and Blues winger Rieko Ioane will be on the sidelines after sustaining a fractured hand in the opening game of the Super Rugby against Chiefs.

Ioane was replaced in the 57th minute during the game in the game which Blues went on to lose 29-37 after having a lead of 21-5 at half-time.

Meanwhile, hooker Ray Niuia has been ruled out of the remainder of season after having a knee injury while prop Alex Hodgman will miss the second game of the season against Waratahs with a calf injury.

Blues are positioned fourth in New Zealand Conference following their defeat in the opening game against Chiefs and will lock horns with New South Wales Waratahs next at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday.