Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu will return from a broken jaw to captain his team against the Crusaders at Eden Park on Saturday night.
Tuipulotu broke his jaw during a pre-season game in Japan seven weeks ago and his return comes as the Blues look to claim a rare win over the Crusaders in Auckland.
The Blues last beat the Crusaders at home in 2014 but new red and blacks coach Rob Penney has inherited a below-strength and injury-hit squad which has yet to win this season. The Crusaders' latest loss was against the Hurricanes in Christchurch.
The Blues upset the Crusaders in Christchurch in 2022 but the defending champions gained their revenge in the grand final at Eden Park.
It will be Tuipulotu's 100th match for the Blues.
“This is the club I love and grew up watching as a kid, it will be an honour to run out with the boys for my 100th game on Saturday night,” he said.
“To come back after an injury lay-off and be able to launch straight into the Crusaders is awesome. It’s going to be physical, it’s going to be tough and we know they’re coming to Eden Park to spoil the party. We’re leaving no stone unturned at training this week, make no mistake this is a big game for us and our fans."
Blues head coach Vern Cotter said Saturday will be a great occasion for his captain.
“Paddy is a special character to have around our group, he holds a lot of mana and is a Blues man through and through. He should be proud of reaching his 100-game milestone for the club,” said Cotter.
“I hope our fans can come along on Saturday night and help celebrate Paddy’s milestone, but also welcome their team back to Eden Park – there’s nothing like a boisterous home crowd to give you that extra lift for a big match,” he said.
Tuipulotu will partner Laghlan McWhannell in the second row.
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