Five members of this year’s Blues have been named in the All Blacks squad for the My Republic Northern Tour, announced today by coach Steve Hansen.

The 2015 Investec Super Rugby schedule was unveiled today, with the Blues set to face local rivals the Chiefs in an intriguing opening round clash.

The Blues have received a welcome injection of experience to their halves with former All Black Jimmy Cowan signing for the franchise for the 2015 Investec Super Rugby season.

Blues flanker Steven Luatua has been named to start for the All Blacks against the Springboks in Wellington on Saturday.

Just one Blues player has been named in the All Blacks squad to face Argentina in the Investec Rugby Championship match in Napier on Saturday.

Glenn Moore has been appointed assistant coach of the Blues for the 2015 and 2016 Investec Super Rugby seasons.

Jerome Kaino has been ruled out of the All Blacks’ clash with the Wallabies at Eden Park on Saturday night.

Three Blues players have been named in the All Blacks team for Saturday’s eagerly-anticipated opening Bledisloe Cup Test against the Wallabies at ANZ Stadium.

The Blues have added considerable strength to their second row contingent with lock Josh Bekhuis signing with the franchise for the 2015 and 2016 Investec Super Rugby seasons.

Bryn Hall’s stellar year has continued with the Blues halfback recently named captain of the North Harbour ITM Cup side.