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Alby Mathewson of the Blues - Source: Photosport -
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The scrum-base pairing of first five-eighth Stephen Brett and halfback Alby Mathewson are among six new Blues named for the Super 14 rugby match against the Hurricanes on Friday night.
Brett was recruited from the Crusaders and Mathewson from the Hurricanes in the off-season specifically to fill in at No 10 and No 9 for the Blues.
At No 8, Viliami Ma'afu gets his Super 14 debut, while openside flanker Serge Lilo, formerly with the Chiefs and the Hurricane, will make his first appearance for the Blues.
In the reserves, there are call-ups for Filo Paulo and former Hurricane first five-eighth Daniel Kirkpatrick.
Unavailable for selection because of injury were lock Ali Williams, and backs George Pisi, Anthony Tuitavake and Luke McAlister.
The spot vacated by Williams, who suffered a season-ending injury after just three minutes of pre-season action, has gone to Kurtis Haiu.
Blues: Rudi Wulf, Rene Ranger, Isaia Toeava, Benson Stanley, Joe Rokocoko, Stephen Brett, Alby Mathewson, Viliami Ma'afu, Serge Lilo, Jerome Kaino, Anthony Boric, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (captain), Tony Woodcock.
Reserves - Tom McCartney, Charlie Faumuina, Filo Paulo, Peter Saili, Chris Smylie.
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