Blues make two changes to backline
NZPA
March 6, 2008

Blues coach David Nucifora has made two changes to his starting 15 for Sunday's Super 14 rugby match against the Sharks in Durban.

Both changes are in the backline, with Anthony Tuitavake replacing winger Rudi Wulf and Ben Atiga coming in for Isa Nacewa at fullback.

"The team is lucky to have such great choices (on the wing) and the performance of Rudi last week made this week's choices incredibly difficult," Nucifora said.

"Anthony has been in great form and deserves his starting spot while Rudi will play a major part in the game countering the effect of the Sharks' bench."

Wulf is on the bench.

Nacewa suffered a knee injury in their 50-26 win over the Cheetahs in Blonfontein last weekend and has been replaced in the squad by David Smith.

"After Isa's unfortunate injury we felt that Ben deserved the opportunity after working hard through the off season and impressing with his displays off the bench in the initial three rounds," Nucifora said.

"We're lucky to have a player of his experience to step into Isa's position.

"We also considered George Pisi and Ice (Isaia Toeava) to cover fullback but felt Ben deserved his chance."

Winger Joe Rokocoko will play his 50th game for the Blues while Bronson Murray is expected to make his debut off the bench.

Blues: Ben Atiga, Anthony Tuitavake, Isaia Toeava, Benson Stanley, Joe Rokocoko, Nick Evans, Danny Lee, Nick Williams, Justin Collins, Jerome Kaino, Troy Flavell (captain), Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Kven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Tom McCartney, Bronson Murray, Bryn Evans, Onosai Tololima-Auva'a, Taniela Moa, Rudi Wulf, George Pisi.

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