Super Rugby Pacific: Dalton Papalii returns, Beauden Barrett bracketed for the Blues

The Blues welcome back their new captain and All Black Dalton Papalii to the starting line-up for Saturday’s return to Eden Park to take on neighbours the Chiefs in their Super Rugby Pacific derby.

The team which returned to Auckland on Thursday afternoon, from the temporary base in Queenstown, is virtually the same combination that was pipped 33-32 in their first outing against the Hurricanes last weekend.

The only changes to the Blues starting line-up see Papalii back to full fitness on the openside flank, and NPC player of the year Stephen Perofeta to start at full-back.

The pack has a strong look with Alex Hodgman, Nepo Laulala, Luke Romano, Hoskins Sotutu and Papalii all having worn the All Black jersey.

The inside back combination of Finlay Christie, Harry Plummer, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Rieko Ioane return along with wingers Caleb Clarke and Mark Telea, who both enjoyed storming games last weekend.

A powerful bench includes Ofa Tuungafasi with a potential return for fellow All Black Beauden Barrett, bracketed on the bench, as he returns to full fitness from a head knock.

“The team is looking forward to returning home to their families, although we have some strict protocols in place to keep as safe as possible from the covid virus,” head coach Leon MacDonald told the Blues’ official website.

“For over 70 minutes we were pleased with the rugby that the boys played. On the plus side, it was our first game and we will be better for that run, although the boys clearly understand that the game is played over 80 minutes.

“There were a lot of things we did well, but we will need to keep improving every game, especially with the challenge the Chiefs present with a strong pack and talent across the field.”

Blues: 15