Blues head coach Sir John Kirwan has named his 26-man squad to travel to South Africa.

SKYCITY Auckland is a proud partner of The X Factor and is giving one lucky fan and three friends the chance to attend the 15 July 2013 live elimination show of The X Factor hosted by players from the Blues.

Blues halfback Piri Weepu has overcome the concussion he sustained against the Highlanders to be named on the bench for the All Blacks side to face France in the second Test of the Steinlager Series in Christchurch on Saturday night.

Following the recent announcement of a new Blues partnership acquiring the licence to operate and manage the Blues franchise, it has been agreed the Blues Franchise and Auckland Rugby Union will be independently led.

A plucky young Blues outfit showed plenty of courage and fight before eventually succumbing to France 38-15 in the adidas challenge at North Harbour Stadium on Tuesday night.

In a coaching team featuring two knights, an All Black skills coach and a Super Rugby Championship-winning scrum coach, new assistant Grant Doorey has gone somewhat unnoticed by outsiders this season.

Blues hooker James Parsons will captain a new-look Blues outfit against France at North Harbour Stadium on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.05pm).

Blues players Rene Ranger and Keven Mealamu have been named on the All Blacks bench for Saturday’s opening Test of the Steinlager Series against France at Eden Park.

This week’s True Blue HQ Fan of the Week, presented by Barfoot & Thompson, is Emily Whitston-Lee (@emwhitstonlee)

Want to win a double pass to Tuesday’s massive showdown between the Blues and France at North Harbour Stadium? Join True Blue HQ and get involved in our digital scavenger hunt for your chance to win!

Fans have decided the Blues will wear the 2013 limited edition Harlequins-style jersey for their match against France in 11 days time.

Steven Luatua, Francis Saili, Keven Mealamu, Rene Ranger, Charles Piutau and Piri Weepu have all been included in the 32 man All Blacks squad for the Steinlager Series against France.