2017 SQUAD GUIDE 28 Campbell Crescent Epsom

PO Box 77012 Mt Albert 1350 www.theblues.co.nz

www.theblues.co.nz facebook.com/theblues twitter.com/BluesRugbyTeam

Player information is current as at 31 October 2016 THE 2017

FORWARDS BACKS COACHES

PROPS HALFBACKS HEAD COACH Alex Hodgman ASSISTANT COACHES Pauliasi Manu Alistair Rogers Sam Prattley FIRST FIVE-EIGHTHS Steve Jackson Ofa Tu’ungafasi David Ellis HOOKERS Hame Faiva MIDFIELD BACKS Matt Moulds Michael Collins James Parsons TJ Faiane LOCKS Gerard Cowley-Tuioti Matt Vaega Josh Goodhue Brandon Nansen OUTSIDE BACKS Patrick Tu’ipulotu Matt Duffie Jimmy Tupou Melani Nanai LOOSE FORWARDS Declan O’Donnell Steven Luatua Kara Pryor Murphy Taramai

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SQUAD GUIDE | 3 COACHING TEAM

TANA UMAGA | HEAD COACH Blues Coaching Debut: 2016 Centurion for and & 74 caps for All Blacks including captaincy. Player-coach and head coach at Toulon, back Other Coaching Roles: to coach at Counties Manukau with success, and Assistant coach RC Toulonnais for NZU20 and Maori All Blacks. Took over Blues in 2016. Counties Manukau Steelers “We made some progress in 2016 and have some experienced players coming home to play for us this year. We want to start development team where we left off, and improve in every game.”

ALISTAIR ROGERS | ASSISTANT COACH Blues Coaching Debut: 2016 Welsh-born former player who moved into coaching in Ireland and Japan. Moved to NZ & Hurricanes & became All Blacks analyst for 7 year, specialising in opposition analysis and defence. He moved back to coaching with the Blues in 2016 with responsibility for defence. “The 2016 season was a learning curve and the made significant change in our defensive patterns. We need to take this to a further level again in 2017 as the cornerstone of our game.”

STEVE JACKSON | ASSISTANT COACH Blues Coaching Debut: 2015 Steve joins the Blues as the forwards coach after outstanding two years with North Harbour. Played for NZ Schools and NZ Maoris, plus Tasman, Auckland, North Harbour and Southland. Moved to successful coaching stints in Nelson, Tasman, Counties Manukau and then North Harbour, & has been Blues Development coach for 3 years. “I’ve worked closely inside the Blues organisation for over two years and think I have a clear understanding of the direction the club is moving and the tremendous work that has been done to make change in the organisation as a whole.”

DAVE ELLIS | SKILLS COACH Blues Coaching Debut: 2016 Dave is a highly respected coach around the globe, who has specialised in skills coaching. He played around the world and then has also had coaching contracts both in NZ for the Int Rugby Academy and several countries. He returns home after his involvement at Connacht in Ireland where they win the Pro 12 title for first time.

4 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE CHARLIE FAUMUINA ALEX HODGMAN POSITION: Prop POSITION: Prop PHYSICAL: 1.84m, 131kg PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 122kg DATE OF BIRTH: 24.12.86 in Auckland DATE OF BIRTH: 16.7.93

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 86 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 9: SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 25 (5t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2009 v in Auckland SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Chiefs in Hamilton

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Canterbury PROVINCIAL CAPS: 49 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 33 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 10 (2t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2007 v Counties Manukau in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Auckland in Auckland

TEST CAPS: 42 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 10 (2t) TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2012 v Argentina in Auckland TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Influential leader, dominant physically but with Big, athletic Auckland prop (196cm, 122kg) who speed and ball handling skills in the front row. played for Fiji U20 in 2012 and NZ U20 in 2013 Blues debut in 2009 and All Blacks since 2012. before moving to the . He is a key Charlie has 86 caps for the Blues and closing in on contributor for Canterbury but returning home – 50 caps for the All Blacks. with a big future.

SIONE MAFILEO PAULIASI MANU POSITION: Prop POSITION: Prop PHYSICAL: 1.78m, 123kg PHYSICAL: 1.84m, 115kg DATE OF BIRTH: 14.4.93 DATE OF BIRTH: 23.12.87 in Tonga

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 9 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 54: SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Crusaders in Albany SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2011 v Waratahs in Auckland

PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCE: Counties Manukau PROVINCIAL CAPS: 25 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 74 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 35 (7t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Southland in Albany PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2008 v Poverty Bay (Auckland) in Gisborne TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... North Harbour prop is NZ Schools in 2011 and THE BLUES SAY... NZU20 in 2013, making Blues debut in 2015. Pauliasi played for the Blues 2011-2012 before an injury St Kentigern College recruit played 8 times for the replacement for Chiefs led to 49 caps over four years Blues in 2015, and impressed in the 2016 Mitre 10 and a regular for Counties Manukau. Injury cover call- Cup. up for 2015 All Blacks World Cup now back home to Auckland. Strong scrummager and open field runner.

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 5 SAM PRATTLEY OFA TU’UNGAFASI POSITION: Prop POSITION: Prop PHYSICAL: 1.94m, 114kg PHYSICAL: 1.95m, 122kg DATE OF BIRTH: 16.1.90 DATE OF BIRTH: 19.4.92 in Tonga

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 34 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 42: SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Crusaders in SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Hurricanes in Christchurch Auckland

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 62 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 41 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 10 (2t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Wellington (Tasman) in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier Wellington TEST CAPS: 2 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2016 v Wales in TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Ofa, quiet-spoken front rower, is NZ Schools & Sam played for NZU20 and debuted for Tasman NZU20 player who earned his All Black debut this in 2010 before moving to the Blues in 2013 after year. Hard-working prop played all but one game stints with the Crusaders and Highlanders. The for Blues in last two season. Known for work for mobile prop has 33 caps for the Blues and was club community groups off the field. player of the year in 2016.

EPALAHAME FAIVA MATT MOULDS POSITION: Hooker POSITION: Hooker PHYSICAL: 1.81m, 108kg PHYSICAL: 1.88m, 108kg DATE OF BIRTH: 9.5.94 DATE OF BIRTH: 15.5.91

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 4 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v in PROVINCE: PROVINCIAL CAPS: 34 PROVINCE: Northland PROVINCIAL POINTS: 40 (8t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 34 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v Horowhenua Kapiti in PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) Morrinsville PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v Southland in Whangarei

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Hame is a young Auckland hooker who learned the Big, smart hooker from Northland was NZ Sevens game at Wesley College, Played NZU20 in 2013 & rep in 2014, moving to Blues 2015 and debut. He 2014. Played for Counties Manukau, Waikato U20 has learned his trade behind and and NZU20 (2013-2014). He played 35 times for James Parsons, captain of Northland 2015-2016. Waikato as a skilful and mobile hooker. Big future on and off field.

6 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE JAMES PARSONS GERARD COWLEY-TUIOTI POSITION: Hooker POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 1.85m, 108kg PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 112kg DATE OF BIRTH: 27.11.86 in Palmerston North DATE OF BIRTH: 16.6.92

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 64: SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 1 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 25 (5t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Highlanders in SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v in Auckland Dunedin PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCIAL CAPS: 27 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 82 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 70 (14t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Manawatu in Albany PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2007 v Wellington in Wellington TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 2 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: 2014 v Scotland in Edinburgh THE BLUES SAY... A standout for the Blues Development, Gerard THE BLUES SAY... was called into 2015 Blues for training cover and James has played 80 times for North Harbour and earned a fulltime place in 2016. He enjoyed a a Blues regular since 2012 who works tirelessly. He strong season for North Harbour this year to secure played twice for All Blacks in 2014 and 2016. He was his place in the Blues. Physical and mobile second outstanding in 2016 as Blues captain and voted MVP. rower.

JOSH GOODHUE BRANDON NANSEN POSITION: Lock POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 1.99m, 115kg PHYSICAL: 1.97m, 117kg DATE OF BIRTH: 13.6.95 DATE OF BIRTH: 3.11.93

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A

PROVINCE: Northland PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCIAL CAPS: 13 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 27 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v Auckland in Auckland

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... From Kawakawa, Josh played for NZ Schools and Brandon played for NZ Schools and Auckland NZU20, alongside twin brother. He returned from age before moving to North Harbour in 2014. He Lincoln University to Northland. He is an imposing graduated from Blues Development to full squad as figure at 1.99m and 115kg at lock, with twin a a 117kg, 197cm aggressive and mobile lock/loose midfielder now with Crusaders. forward.

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 7 SCOTT SCRAFTON PATRICK TU’IPULOTU POSITION: Lock POSITION: Lock PHYSICAL: 2.00m, 114kg PHYSICAL: 1.98m, 125kg DATE OF BIRTH: 18.4.93 DATE OF BIRTH: 23.1.93 in Auckland

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 1 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 34: SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 25 (5t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Waratahs in Auckland SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2014 v Highlanders in Dunedin

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 22 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 14 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Northland in Auckland PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2013 v North Harbour in Auckland TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 10 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: 5 (1t) TEST DEBUT: 2014 v England in Christchurch THE BLUES SAY... A St Kentigern College graduate who played for THE BLUES SAY... NZ Schools and NZ U20. Young 2m tall player has Big young lock with outstanding skills, already chance to step into boots of Josh Bekhuis after playing 34 times for the Blues and an All Black being understudy in 2016. Outstanding season for since 2015. He missed the World Cup due to injury Auckland in Mitre 10 Cup. but back to his block-busting best. Former NZ Schools and NZ U20 rep.

JIMMY TUPOU BLAKE GIBSON POSITION: Lock POSITION: Loose forward PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 109kg PHYSICAL: 1.86m, 103kg DATE OF BIRTH: 8.8.92 DATE OF BIRTH: 19.4.95 in Auckland

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 37 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 13 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2013 v Waratahs (Crusaders) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Highlanders in in Christchurch Dunedin

PROVINCE: Counties Manukau PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 49 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 12 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Southland in Pukekohe PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Canterbury in Christchurch TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... Pukekohe-born lock/loosie played for NZU20 in THE BLUES SAY... 2012, a regular member of Counties Manukau since Blake is a schools leader, NZU20 star in 2015, and co-captain in 2016. He moved to Crusaders with making Blues debut in 2016 where he made a huge nearly 40 Super caps to his credit before returning impression at loose forward. He was sidelined for home to add much experience to the Blues. injury for much of Super season. Huge future.

8 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE AKIRA IOANE JEROME KAINO POSITION: Number 8 POSITION: Loose forward PHYSICAL: 1.94m, 113kg PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 109kg DATE OF BIRTH: 16.1.95 DATE OF BIRTH: 6.4.83 in Tutuila, American

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 17 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 118 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 70 (14t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Chiefs in Albany SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2004 v Reds in

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 21 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 54 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 25 (5t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 45 (9t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Southland in Invercargill PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2004 v Poverty Bay in Auckland

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 75 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 60 (12t) TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2006 v Ireland in Hamilton

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... The strapping loose forward debuted for the Blues Jerome is the gladiator of the Blues and All in 2015. NZ Schools and NZU20 rep se-lected for Blacks, a leader by deeds rather than words – a NZ Sevens as a teenager since 2014 as a stand- Blues centurion and 80 caps for the All Blacks. A out, playing at the Rio Olympics. He is big, key contributor to both 2011 and 2015 World Cup extraordinarily fast and powerful loose forward. victories, he is a big, fast, uncompromising loose forward.

STEVEN LUATUA KARA PRYOR POSITION: Lock / Loose forward POSITION: PHYSICAL: 1.96m, 115kg PHYSICAL: 1.89m, 105kg DATE OF BIRTH: 29.4.91 in Auckland DATE OF BIRTH: 2.4.91

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 63 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 13 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 35 (7t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Lions in Auckland SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Highlanders in Auckland PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 31 PROVINCE: Northland PROVINCIAL POINTS: 30 (6t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 29 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Canterbury in Auckland PROVINCIAL POINTS: 15 (3t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Manawatu in Whangarei TEST CAPS: 14 TEST POINTS: 5 (1t) TEST CAPS: 0 TEST DEBUT: 2013 v France in New Plymouth TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... Steven is big, fast and extraordinarily skilful – at THE BLUES SAY... loose forward or lock. He played NZ Schools, Popular young loose forward played for Auckland NZU20 & Auckland in 2010. Debut for Blues was in before returning home to Northland. Speed and 2011 (2nd year NZU20) and All Blacks in 2012 (14 flare saw him graduate from Development team caps). Top form in 2016 led to AB recall. to Blues full contract in 2016 where he impressed playing in 13 of the 15 games.

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 9 MURPHY TARAMAI BILLY GUYTON POSITION: Number 8 POSITION: Halfback PHYSICAL: 1.86m, 100kg PHYSICAL: 1.86m, 92kg DATE OF BIRTH: 17.8.92 DATE OF BIRTH: 17.3.90 in Timaru

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 16 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2014 v Waratahs (Hurricanes)

PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCE: Tasman PROVINCIAL CAPS: 13 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 71 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 155 (14t, 20c, 15p) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Taranaki (Wellington) in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Southland (North Wellington Otago)

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Upper Hutt player returned from a South Canterbury rugby nomad who has played for stint at Australia and changed to rugby. Impressed North Otago, Tasman Makos, Hurricanes, Crusaders at Sevens for Wellington and NZ before moving and back to Tasman. He moved to the Blues in to 15s with North Harbour where he made big 2016, often with the important closing role. impression as a loose forward. Outstanding team contributor.

SAM NOCK AUGUSTINE PULU POSITION: Halfback POSITION: Halfback PHYSICAL: 1.75m, 85kg PHYSICAL: 1.80m, 89kg DATE OF BIRTH: 18.6.96 DATE OF BIRTH: 4.1.90 in Otahuhu

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 1 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 51 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 30 (6t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Hurricanes in SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Blues (Chiefs) in Auckland Hamilton

PROVINCE: Northland PROVINCE: Counties Manukau PROVINCIAL CAPS: 17 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 66 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 5 (1t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 60 (12t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2009 v Bay of Plenty in Pukekohe

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 2 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: 0 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: 2014 v USA in Chicago

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Sam is a NZ Schools and NZU20 (2015-2016) The Auckland-born halfback has played for Counties halfback, who captained St Kentigern. He returned Manukau since 2010 and the Chiefs from 2013. He to play for Northland & moved to Blues Wider moved to Sevens and played in the Rio Olympics. Training in 2016 making his debut vs Hurricanes. A strong running, passing and defensive player - a Excellent Mitre 10 Cup season for Taniwhas. major acquisition.

10 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE PIERS FRANCIS IHAIA WEST POSITION: First five-eighth POSITION: First five-eighth PHYSICAL: 1.82m, 92kg PHYSICAL: 1.75m, 84kg DATE OF BIRTH: 20.6.90 DATE OF BIRTH: 16.1.92

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 11 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 37 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 41 (1t, 12c, 4p) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 286 (7t, 46c, 53p) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Jaguares in Albany SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2014 v Reds in Auckland

PROVINCE: Counties Manukau PROVINCE: Hawke’s Bay PROVINCIAL CAPS: 36 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 54 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 174 (2t, 34c, 31p, 1d) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 565 (15t, 105c, 93p, 2d) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Canterbury (Auckland) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Counties Manukau in in Auckland Napier

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Piers is an English-born inside back who has played Ihaia, from Hawkes Bay, played for NZU20 & Maori at Saracens and Edinburgh. He played for Counties All Blacks. Injury cover for Blues in 2014, he Manukau in 2015 and Rookie of the Year at the impressed to earn permanent place and 37 caps. Blues in 2016, playing 11 times. At home at first- He played in every game in 2016, scored 135 points five or midfield. and developed into strong allround player.

MICHAEL COLLINS TJ FAIANE POSITION: Midfield back POSITION: Midfield back PHYSICAL: 1.86m, 99kg PHYSICAL: 1.75m, 92kg DATE OF BIRTH: 3.6.93 DATE OF BIRTH: 24.10.95

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A

PROVINCE: Otago PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 43 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 7 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 50 (10t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 0 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2012 v Southland in Balclutha PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Bay of Plenty in Rotorua

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Queenstown-born player moved to Dunedin for TJ is a former NZ Schools and NZU20 (2014-2015) schooling, selected for NZ Schools in 2011 and he has suffered two ACL injuries, which sidelined Otago 2012.Played NZU20 in 2013 and 32 times him in 2015 and 2016. He is a tremendous midfield for Otago. He is a complete utility who can play talent who will be looking to make his Super Rugby midfield, wing or fullback. debut this year.

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 11 GEORGE MOALA RENE RANGER POSITION: Wing POSITION: Centre PHYSICAL: 1.88m, 99kg PHYSICAL: 1.85m, 101kg DATE OF BIRTH: 5.11.90 DATE OF BIRTH: 30.9.86

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 53: SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 71 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 85 (17t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 130 (26t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2012 v Sharks in Auckland SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2009 v Force

PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCE: Northland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 46 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 65 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 135 (27t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 75 (15t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Otago in Auckland PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2006 v North Harbour

TEST CAPS: 3 TEST CAPS: 6 TEST POINTS: 10 (2t) TEST POINTS: 5 (1t) TEST DEBUT: 2015 v Samoa in Apia TEST DEBUT: 2010 v Wales

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... George worked through grades before his Auckland A dynamic back with flare who returned from debut in 2011 & Blues in 2012, earning his 50th France to re-join the Blues last year, Rene suffered in 2016. Quietly-spoken off the field and a block- a season-ending injury but expected to provide busting midfield/wing on field, he made his All real thrust in 2017. Played for NZ Sevens, has 71 Blacks debut in 2015 with 2 more games in 2016. Blues’ caps and six caps for All Blacks.

MATT VAEGA SONNY BILL WILLIAMS POSITION: Midfield Back POSITION: Midfield back PHYSICAL: 1.78m, 94kg PHYSICAL: 1.91m, 108kg DATE OF BIRTH: 07.09.94 DATE OF BIRTH: 3.8.85

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 5 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 42 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 5 (1t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 55 (11t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v Hurricanes in SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2011 v Waratahs (Crusaders) Auckland in Nelson

PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCE: Counties Manukau PROVINCIAL CAPS: 27 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 9 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 42 (6t, 3c, 2p) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Manawatu in Albany PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2010 v Bay of Plenty (Canterbury) in Christchurch TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST CAPS: 33 TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST POINTS: 45 (9t) TEST DEBUT: 2010 v England in Twickenham THE BLUES SAY... Matt and father To’o are first father-and-son to THE BLUES SAY... play for the Blues. Former NZ Schools star played Sonny has returned to Auckland and the Blues until five times for Blues in 2015 & 2016. Strong running 2019. Rugby league superstar, moved to rugby and and excellent defence for North Harbour in Mitre the All Blacks for 2011 RWC win. Then returned to 10 Cup led to his selection. win NRL title with the Roosters, and back to rugby for 2015 RWC win. He played for NZ Sevens at Rio. 12 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE MATT DUFFIE RIEKO IOANE POSITION: Wing / Fullback POSITION: Wing PHYSICAL: 1.92m, 95kg PHYSICAL: 1.88m, 103kg DATE OF BIRTH: 16.8.90 DATE OF BIRTH: 18.3.97 in Auckland

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 7 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 5 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2t) SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 10 (2) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Crusaders in Christchurch SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2016 v Reds in Brisbane

PROVINCE: North Harbour PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL CAPS: 11 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 15 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 20 (4t) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 60 (12t) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2016 v Counties Manukau in PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Taranaki in Auckland Albany TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... The strapping loose forward debuted for the Blues The former league professional at Melbourne in 2015. NZ Schools and NZU20 rep selected for Storm returned to Auckland last year. By end of NZ Sevens as a teenager since 2014 as a stand- season was a regular on the wing and played well out, playing at the Rio Olympics. He is big, for North Harbour in 2016. Fast, hard-working with extraordinarily fast and powerful loose forward. excellent aerial skills on the wing or fullback.

DECLAN O’DONNELL MALANI NANAI POSITION: Wing POSITION: Wing PHYSICAL: 1.88m, 94kg PHYSICAL: 1.94m, 93kg DATE OF BIRTH: 28.11.90 DATE OF BIRTH: 3.8.93

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 24 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: 40 (8t) SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: 2015 v in Bloemfontein PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCIAL CAPS: 38 PROVINCE: Auckland PROVINCIAL POINTS: 50 (10t) PROVINCIAL CAPS: 17 PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2011 v Southland (Waikato) in PROVINCIAL POINTS: 35 (7t) Invercargill PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2014 v Bay of Plenty in Rotorua

TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A

THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Former Sevens star who has played for the Chiefs Melani was a Samoa U20 rep in 2013 who emerged and Highlanders. Curtailed by injury for last two from Manukau club to Auckland in 2014 and Blues years, he impressed for Taranaki on wing this year in 2015. Found home at fullback with Tana Umaga to earn call-up to Blues. in 2016 with some brilliant running and strong aerial skills. Huge future.

BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE | 13 STEPHEN PEROFETA JORDAN TRAINOR POSITION: Fullback POSITION: Wing PHYSICAL: 1.81m, 85kg PHYSICAL: 1.87m, 83kg DATE OF BIRTH: 12.3.97 DATE OF BIRTH: 31.1.96

SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY GAMES: 0 SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY POINTS: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A SUPER RUGBY DEBUT: N/A

PROVINCE: Taranaki PROVINCE: Waikato PROVINCIAL CAPS: 18 PROVINCIAL CAPS: 11 PROVINCIAL POINTS: 74 (13t, 3c, 1p) PROVINCIAL POINTS: 82 (6t, 17c, 6p) PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Horowhenua Kapiti PROVINCIAL DEBUT: 2015 v Hawke’s Bay in Napier (Wanganui) in Levin TEST CAPS: 0 TEST CAPS: 0 TEST POINTS: N/A TEST POINTS: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A TEST DEBUT: N/A THE BLUES SAY... THE BLUES SAY... Aucklander who played U18 but moved to Waikato Stephen played first class rugby while at school in Uni as Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship winner. Wanganui, a finalist in Heartland Play of the Year NZU20 rep who played for Waikato since 2015 and selected for the Heartland XV last year. He and Blues last year. Skilful fullback/wing and an moved to Taranaki this year where he impressed at excellent goal-kicker. first-five and fullback and selected for NZU20 side.

14 | BLUES 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SQUAD GUIDE BLUES IN 2016

FINISHED 11TH OVERALL AFTER ROUND ROBIN

P W D L B PF PA PD B3T B7 PTS 15 8 1 6 2 374 380 -6 2 3 39

Photos: Getty Images

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