Pat Lam downgrades several All Blacks from Blues squad - Super Rugby update
According to sources, the Blues’ coach Pat Lam made a few crucial changes to the squad, after experiencing and learning a lesson from last weekend’s first fifteen’s performance against Sharks. Pat Lam made six changes in the starting lineup, which raised
numerous questions. Several commentators believe the changes portray the coaches insecurities and lack of confidence in the All Blacks experienced players.
Luke McAlister the fly half will be making his first start for Vodacom Super 15 campaign for Blues. Les Blues will be playing against Lions on Friday in Johannesburg.
Crusaders had to play without McAllister in the first round victory because of his concussion. Though, he made a comeback in Durban during the 26-12 defeat and is now selected by Pat Lam for the first fifteen. McAllister will be replacing Stephen Brett,
who will be benched for a few matches.
Tom McCartney has been upgraded to the number two jersey, while hooker Keven Mealamu will be sitting on bench and will see how this new formula works. Luke Braid has been relieved by his brother, Daniel Braid, who has been dropped to the bench, while Luke
will take on the field in the starting lineup as an open side flanker. Number eight jersey has been gifted to Peter Saili, who will be making his first starting lineup appearance in this year’s Super Rugby season.
At lock, Pat lam has appointed Kurtis Haiu and dropped Anthony Boric to the bench. Rene Renger has also been sidelined and Sherwin Stowers, sevens flyer, will be making a debut in the starting lineup for Blues.
Blues squad for Lions’ fixture:
15. Isaia Toeava, 14. Joe Rokocoko, 13. Jared Payne, 12. Benson Stanley, 11. Sherwin Stowers, 10. Luke McAlister, 9. Alby Mathewson, 8. Peter Saili, 7. Luke Braid, 6. Jerome Kaino (captain), 5. Ali Williams, 4. Kurtis Haiu, 3. John Afoa, 2. Tom McCartney, 1. Tony Woodcock
Replacements:
16. Keven Mealamu, 17. Charlie Faumuina, 18. Anthony Boric, 19. Daniel Braid, 20. Toby Morland, 21. Stephen Brett, 22. Rene Ranger
Many fans want to know the motives behind Pat Lam’s drastic changes. The answer will only be revealed this weekend when Lions take on Blues in Johannesburg. Dropping All Black stars might cause damage when it comes to scrum and line-outs.
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