Blues make changes for Hurricanes semi-final

The Blues have made several changes to their starting side for Saturday night’s Super Rugby Pacific semi-final against the Hurricanes in Wellington.

Beauden Barrett returns at fullback as Vern Cotter’s side prepare for a difficult away knockout fixture against the competition’s most consistent team.

Blues Name Team For Hurricanes Semi-Final

Barrett has been named to start at fullback for the Blues, while Hoskins Sotutu comes into the starting XV at number eight. Finlay Christie also returns at halfback for the semi-final at Sky Stadium.

The Blues are aiming to keep their season alive after reaching the final four, with Cotter stressing that finals rugby is about embracing pressure and earning the right to continue.

“We know what’s waiting for us in Wellington and we’re excited about the challenge. Finals rugby is about embracing that and earning the right to keep your season alive,” he said.

“The Hurricanes have been the competition’s most consistent team and they will be tough to beat at home, but we've prepared well and are looking forward to the contest.

“This group has shown resilience all season. We’ve had plenty of injuries and challenges, but the players continue to stay in the fight.”

Beauden Barrett Returns At Fullback

The backline has been reshaped for the Hurricanes clash. Xavi Taele has been named at second five-eighth, AJ Lam shifts back to centre and Cole Forbes starts on the right wing.

The Blues will be without Zarn Sullivan, Sam Nock and Malachi Wrampling. Sullivan has been ruled out with a foot injury, Nock is sidelined with a broken hand, while Wrampling is unavailable due to concussion and suspension.

Blues Face Tough Hurricanes Test

Cotter said the Blues know what awaits them in Wellington and are excited by the challenge. He described the Hurricanes as the competition’s most consistent team and acknowledged the difficulty of beating them at home.

The Blues coach also praised the resilience of his squad after a season disrupted by injuries and setbacks. He said the players had continued to stay in the fight and were looking forward to the semi-final contest.

Blues: Beauden Barrett, Cole Forbes, AJ Lam, Xavi Taele, Caleb Clarke, Stephen Perofeta, Finlay Christie; Hoskins Sotutu, Anton Segner, Torian Barnes, Sam Darry, Patrick Tuipulotu (capt), Marcel Renata, Bradley Slater, Ofa Tu'ungafasi.

Replacements: Eli Oudenryn, Mason Tupaea, Flyn Yates, Josh Beehre, Che Clark, Taufa Funaki, Pita Ahki, Payton Spencer.

Hurricanes: Callum Harkin, Josh Moorby, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Fehi Fineanganofo, Cam Roigard; Peter Lakai, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Brad Shields, Warner Dearns, Caleb Delany, Pasilio Tosi, Asafo Aumua, Xavier Numia.

Replacements: Raymond Tuputupu, Tyrel Lomax, Isaia-Walker-Leawere, Brayden Iose, Ereatari Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo