CHAMPION nib BLUES HUNT FOR TRANS-TASMAN GLORY

Fresh from winning back-to-back Super Rugby Aupiki titles, the nib Blues have named their team to contest Thursday night’s Super Rugby Women’s Champions Final. 
 
The nib Blues will face off against NSW Waratahs, winners of the Australian competition, to decide an overall title winner at North Harbour Stadium, kickoff at 7.05pm. 
 
Head coach Willie Walker has named one change to the forward line from the Aupiki championship win over Matatū, while Ruahei Demant moves in to first five and Sylvia Brunt gets the start at second five. 
 
The Super Rugby Women’s Champions Final will be even more special for Chryss Viliko, Maama Vaipulu and Jaymie Kolose who are all reaching their 20th game milestone. 
 
The Waratahs won the Australian Super Rugby Women’s final 43-21 over the Reds, and will be a fierce challenge on Thursday night. 
 
“Winning the Aupiki title on Saturday was really special for us. It was a well-earned reward for the hard work everyone has put in this season, Walker said. 
 
“Matatū gave us a really tough match which was great preparation for Thursday night against the Waratahs. They are a high quality side and it’s going to be a fantastic challenge. 
 
“We’re looking forward to the next few days of preparation and hope our fans come out in full voice at North Harbour Stadium to give us one final lift, as they have done all season.” 

Elizabith MoiMoi comes in at No. 8 for Liana Mikaele-Tu’u who has been ruled out with a foot injury, while Eloise Blackwell is subject to judicial proceedings due to a red card in the Super Rugby Aupiki Grand Final and unavailable for selection. 
 
nib Blues team for Super Women’s Champions Final 
Thursday, 7:05pm at North Harbour Stadium  
 
1. Chryss Viliko - 20th game 
2. Atlanta Lolohea 
3. Aldora Itunu 
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (captain) 
5. Maama Vaipulu - 20th game 
6. Holly Greenway 
7. Taufa Bason 
8. Elizabith MoiMoi 
9. Tara Turner 
10. Ruahei Demant 
11. Jaymie Kolose - 20th game 
12. Sylvia Brunt 
13. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe 
14. Katelyn Vahaakolo 
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee 
 
Reserves: 16. Grace Gago, 17. Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, 18. Harono Te Iringa, 19. Cheyenne Tuli-Fale, 20. Dajian Brown, 21. Kerri Johnson, 22. Krysten Cottrell, 23. Patricia Maliepo 

Buy tickets at blues.flicket.co.nz