Faumuina back for Blues

The Blues have made two changes to their starting lineup for Saturday's match against the Lions in Johannesburg.

Charlie Faumuina returns to the starting lineup ahead of Ofa Tu’ungafasi, who shifts to the bench.

Josh Bekhuis has been ruled out after injuring his calf against the Kings last weekend. He's replaced at No 5 lock by Hoani Matenga, with Kara Pryor taking Matenga’s place on the bench.

Eighthman Steven Luatua will serve as lock cover, with loose forward Joe Edwards being benched.

Blues – 15 Lolagi Visinia, 14 Melani Nanai, 13 George Moala, 12 Piers Francis, 11 Tevita Li, 10 Ihaia West, 9 Bryn Hall, 8 Steven Luatua, 7 Tanerau Latimer, 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Hoani Matenga, 4 Patrick Tuipulotu, 3 Charlie Faumuina, 2 James Parsons (c), 1 Sam Prattley.
Subs: 16 Quentin MacDonald, 17 Nic Mayhew, 18 Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 19 Kara Pryor, 20 Joe Edwards, 21 Billy Guyton, 22 Matt McGahan, 23 Male Sau.

Super Rugby teams (Round 12)

Photo: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images