Star winger on move again to second-five
Liam Napier
Rieko Ioane’s merry-go-round continues at the Blues. Wing one minute, midfield the next; this theme continues for the world-class finisher.
Ioane, the star All Blacks left wing, has been shifted back to second fiveeighth to replace the injured TJ Faiane for Saturday’s clash with the Jaguares at Eden Park.
With Sonny Bill Williams thought to be one week away from returning after wrist surgery, Ioane has been paired in the midfield with Orbyn Leger.
Faiane is out for at least two weeks after spraining his ankle in last week’s loss to the Highlanders.
Ioane has made no secret of his long-term quest to develop into a centre but his immediate future for the All Blacks remains on the wing, and he has struggled to adjust when thrust into the unfamiliar No 12 jersey this season.
This week Blues have also lost All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who has been unwell.
The only good news is the possible return of captain Augustine Pulu, bracketed at halfback with Jonathan Ruru, as he attempts to return from a foot complaint.
Gerard Cowley-Tuioti makes a timely comeback to take Tuipulotu’s place in the second-row.
Elsewhere, Bryn Gatland appears to have paid the price for the Blues’ underwhelming form with Stephen Perofeta moved from fullback to his favoured first-five role, and Matt Duffie slotting in at the back.
“It is definitely nice to see some players back out running with the team on the training field, but for those bracketed, it will depend how they come through our contact session this afternoon,” Blues coach Tana Umaga said yesterday.
Tumua Manu, who scored a try off the bench in his debut last week, gets a start on the left wing joining Jordan Hyland on the right edge.
North Harbour prop Sione Mafileo is promoted for his first start while hooker Leni Apisai comes on to the bench.
Northland’s Kara Pryor will need to come through training today after a knock against the Highlanders and is bracketed with Dalton Papali’i at openside.
The Jaguares arrive after successive wins over the Rebels and Brumbies in Australia.