Experienced pair return for key clash for nib Blues

The nib Blues will be buoyed with the return of captain Aroha Savage and experienced Black Fern Eloise Blackwell for the key clash against Chiefs Manawa in Sky Super Rugby Aupiki in Hamilton on Sunday.

Coach Willie Walker has chosen largely the same side that beat the South Island Matatu side mid-week.

While the competition has been condensed because of the effects of covid, it is fitting for the final match to be a rematch between the two teams that sparked this important competition when they played at Eden Park last year.

“Obviously it would have been nice to have played the full competition but I am full of admiration with the way the girls have approach the covid challenge. They have been very professional and remained upbeat – and I know they are fizzing after the game during the week.

“With the expanded squads and rolling subs, we are able to use most of the girls, and we felt it was better to build further on what the team began against Matatu.

“Naturally the team are excited for their captain to be fit for selection, and for Eloise to be able to take her place to come off the bench. The team will be all the better for that first game. And they know what to expect.”

The run-on side includes seven Black Ferns and two Blake Ferns Sevens, and a number of young talents.

Savage comes in at No 8 with Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, outstanding mid-week, moving to her more accustomed role at No 6.

A key was the strength of the set-piece led by Black Ferns props Krystal Murray and Aldora Ituna and the experienced of Rebecca Todd at hooker, and ball-winning abilities of Black Ferns lock Maiakawanakaulani Roos and Canadian Cindy Nelles.

The backline is unchanged, directed by halfback Mel Puckett inside the international pairing of Patricia Maliepo and Ruehei Dement, and with talent and speed aplenty wider out, along with impact off the bench with the likes of the effervescent Mele Hufanga who added much impact against Matatu.

The game is at 7.35pm kickoff on Sunday at FMG Stadium with coverage live on Sky Sport.