Replacing a player of the calibre of Jerome Kaino is an impossible and unenviable task for anyone, but Blues loose forward Chris Lowrey is relishing that challenge and has made an incredible fist of it so far this season.

The Blues return to Eden Park on Friday night for their round eight clash with the Sharks determined to salvage their season and reignite their faltering campaign.

All Black lock Ali Williams has been relegated to the bench and outside back Lachie Munro has been axed from the 22 altogether for Friday night’s match against the Sharks at Eden Park (kick-off 7.35pm).

The Blues slumped to their fifth defeat in six matches as they were defeated by the Rebels 34-23 in Melbourne on Thursday night.

Blues chairman Greg Muir has announced today he will stand down from his position on the board.

Blues head coach Pat Lam finally has the luxury of naming a full strength front row for Thursday night’s match against the Rebels.

Between them, All Black stars Piri Weepu and Ma’a Nonu have notched up 195 Super Rugby caps for the Hurricanes. Yet tonight will be the very first game they have played against their former franchise as they line up for the Blues.

New Zealand Rugby has acknowledged All Blacks, Blues and Auckland loose forward Jerome Kaino who today confirmed he is leaving New Zealand rugby to take up a contract with Japanese club Toyota.

Hurricanes centre Conrad Smith scored a try as the fulltime siren sounded to clinch a 26-25 victory for his side at Eden Park tonight

The 2012 Super Rugby season may be just a month old but already the dreaded phrase ëmust-win’ has crept into the lexicon as the Blues know only a win will suffice against the Hurricanes on Friday night.

Blues flanker Luke Braid has been suspended for three weeks for striking Stormers player Nizaam Carr last week in their round four clash in Cape Town.