Blue sky over Auckland as Evans return bolsters Super 14 hopes

Last year’s semi-finalists have a tough beginning to the season, starting off at home against their neighbours, the Chiefs, followed by a three-week tour of South Africa. The upside of the tough start to the season is that the Blues’ travel schedule is relatively light towards the end of the campaign, leaving them fresh for a potential semi-final.

The Blues have lost a number of high-profile players to overseas clubs, such as Doug Howlett and Luke McAlister, while unwanted All Black Ali Williams is playing for the Crusaders. Their biggest addition is back-up All Black first-five Nick Evans, who returns to Auckland after a number of seasons with the Highlanders.

Despite some high-profile losses, the Blues still possess one of the most talented squads, retaining a number of current and fringe All Blacks such as Keven Mealamu and Troy Flavell. Coach David Nucifora already has one Super Rugby title with the Brumbies and this squad gives him an excellent chance at another.

The addition of Evans give the Blues one of the most explosive back lines in the tournament, with Isa Nacewa dropping to full ack and the powerful pairing of Isaia Toeava and Anthony Tuitavake in midfield. One of last year’s top try scorers, Rudi Wulf, returns to the team as well, giving the Blues excellent strike power out wide.

In the forwards, the Blues suffer an embaressment of riches, particularly in the loose forwards. Daniel Braid and newcomer Onosa’i Tololima Auva’a will share time at open side, veteran Justin Collins and a resurgent Jerome Kaino share the blindside role, while bustling Evans will share some time at No.8 with Flavell.

The Blues v Chiefs clash is the marquee match up of the opening round. The Chiefs were unlucky to miss out on the semis last year and always delight in beating their northern neighbours. However, they will go into this game as underdogs.

Ignore any initial wobbles from the Blues; the opening draw has not been kind, but they are a much better team than a potential 1-3 record would suggest. At the end of the season they will be in the hunt for a semi-final berth and they have the potential to win their fourth title in 2008.

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