Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan shares his thoughts on the 2013 Blues squad

Blues Head Coach Sir John Kirwan announced his 2013 squad at a free breakfast event exclusively for members, sponsors and the media this morning

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Watch a live stream of the 2013 Blues squad announcement direct from Eden Park.

Blues and Auckland lock Ali Williams has been included in the 32 man squad for the All Blacks European Tour to Scotland, Italy, Wales and England.

The new Blues era under Sir John Kirwan will kick-off on February 23 against the Hurricanes in Wellington next year after the official Investec Super Rugby draw was released.

Blues captain Keven Mealamu will play his 100th Test match for the All Blacks when he runs out to face Australia at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane on Saturday.

Four Blues players have been included in the All Blacks team to face Argentina at Estadio Ciudad de La Plata in La Plata on Saturday.

Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan today announced Waisake Naholo, Baden Kerr, Bryn Hall and Kane Barrett have all signed two year contracts with the franchise.

Experienced Blues halfback Piri Weepu will make his first start of the year for the All Blacks on Saturday when they take on South Africa in Dunedin.

The Blues have signed Crusaders flanker Brendon O’Connor and Southland outside back Marty McKenzie to join the squad for the 2013/14 Super Rugby seasons.

All Black and Blues veteran prop Tony Woodcock will not play for the Blues next season. Woodcock has advised Blues Coach Sir John Kirwan that he will be playing for the Highlanders in 2013.