Blues Squad Locked for Reds Clash

The Blues will mark Anzac Day with a trans-Tasman match-up against the Queensland Reds, as Super Round brings the competition together in Christchurch.

Set to play under the roof at the brand new One NZ Stadium, the Blues and Reds will again go head-to-head, with the Sellars Dixon Medal set to be awarded to the player of the match in honour of the Anzac spirit.

This week, Ben Ake has been named to make his first start at loosehead prop after debuting off the bench against the Highlanders.

Kade Banks also makes his first start of the season on the right wing opposite Cole Forbes, while Pita Ahki returns to the midfield at second five.

Stephen Perofeta is back in the mix off the bench after recovering from a calf injury, adding valuable experience to the game day 23.

Head coach Vern Cotter said building consistency remains a key focus.

“The last few weeks we’ve had some players coming back, and others getting an opportunity to step up. Our focus has been building on those connections as a group and making sure we are locked in for the full 80 minutes,” he said.

“Playing on Anzac Day is always a significant moment. It’s a chance to acknowledge the history and connection between the two countries, and we’re proud to be part of that.

“Super Round adds an extra layer, bringing everyone together in one place creates a real energy around the game. Christchurch has embraced it and I know we will have some local and travelling Blues fans who will be there for us as they have been all season.”

Super Round will see three days of rugby and entertainment take over Christchurch, with teams and fans from across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific coming together in a festival atmosphere.

Blues Team - Super Round vs Reds
7.35pm (NZT), Saturday 25 April in Christchurch

1. Ben Ake (1)
2. Bradley Slater (6)
3. Marcel Renata (75)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c) (125)
5. Sam Darry (42)
6. Anton Segner (47)
7. Dalton Papali’i (104)
8. Hoskins Sotutu (85)
9. Finlay Christie (77)
10. Beauden Barrett (50)
11. Cole Forbes (36)
12. Pita Ahki (22)
13. AJ Lam (67)
14. Kade Banks (2)
15. Zarn Sullivan (50)

Reserves: 16. James Mullan (11), 17. Mason Tupaea (17), 18. Sam Matenga (7), 19. Josh Beehre (36), 20. Torian Barnes (8), 21. Taufa Funaki (40), 22. Stephen Perofeta (75), 23. Xavi Taele (14)

Players not considered due to injury: Cameron Christie (knee, season), Caleb Clarke (calf), Corey Evans (ankle), Joshua Fusitu’a (bicep), Jordan Lay (concussion), Laghlan McWhannell (concussion), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (calf), Malachi Wrampling (hamstring)