Tony Woodcock has lost his race to overcome a calf strain in time for Friday night’s clash with the Lions as more injury concerns continue to plague the beleaguered Blues.

An emotional Blues captain Keven Mealamu today fronted the hordes of media that had descended on the Blues training base at Unitec to apologise on behalf of his players for the fact Pat Lam’s coaching position is being advertised.

The Blues are delighted to announce three key players ñCharlie Faumuina, Luke Braid and Tom McCartney – have each signed two-year deals with the franchise for the next two seasons.

The Blues’ wretched season plummeted to new depths on Friday night as they were thrashed by the Hurricanes 35-19 at Westpac Stadium in Wellington.

Michael Hobbs has faced plenty of adversity both on and off the field this year, but he is relishing the opportunity of making his first start at 10 since round 2 this evening as the Blues take on the Hurricanes

Michael Hobbs has been handed the number 10 jersey to face the Hurricanes at Westpac Stadium on Friday night (kick-off 7.35pm)

The Blues don’t seem any closer to kicking their losing habit after going down to defending champions the Reds 11-23 at Eden Park tonight.

Tony Woodcock has been ruled out of Friday’s clash with the Queensland Reds after suffering a calf strain during training yesterday.

The Blues are heading to The Nation’s Clubrooms at SKYCITY Auckland after their game against the Queensland Reds this Friday.

The Blues may have fallen to new depths this season with just one win in their last eight outings but there can be no denying the desire and determination of the team to rise and put an end to their losing streak.

Benson Stanley has every reason to celebrate earning 50 caps when he takes the field to face the Queensland Reds on Friday night.