Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan has praised the courage and commitment of his young outfit in the wake of their narrow 41-35 loss to the Queensland Reds on Saturday.

The Blues’ young newcomers will get the chance to test themselves against a powerful Reds outfit when the two sides meet for their first pre-season trial of the year in Toowoomba on Saturday.

They’ve got a new-look team and a new coaching staff, now the Blues are taking a fresh new approach to their team poster ahead of the 2013 Investec Super Rugby season.

The Blues have named a group of 20 players who will form the core of the 2013 Blues Development team for a five-game campaign in February and March.

Piri Weepu is backÖand he’s fit and raring to go.

He’s still got that trademark smile and jovial attitude, but there is a steelier edge to Blues livewire Rene Ranger this season.

When one of the Blues’ biggest fans approached us about her desire to put on a special American-style BBQ for the team, it was an offer we simply couldn’t refuse.

Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan hijacked our Twitter account (@BluesRugbyTeam) yesterday afternoon to answer all your questions live.

The Blues are heading into the community on Wednesday and will hold a public training session at Teachers Eastern Rugby Club in Orakei.

What better way to kick off the Blues home season with a cracker match against our favourite foes – the Crusaders. This clash at Eden Park is always an epic battle and expect no less for our first home game of the 2013 season.

New Blues captain Ali Williams is so excited about the upcoming season you just can’t keep him away.