Rugby: Blues tipped to bring back heavy artillery

Tony Woodcock. Photo / Getty Images

Big game, bring back the howitzer. That would appear to be the Blues' slogan as they return loosehead prop Tony Woodcock to their armoury for Saturday's visit to Christchurch and the battle with the Crusaders.

The southern stronghold is expecting that scenario and it seems Blues coach Pat Lam will concur when he announces his side today for their next Super 14 clash. Woodcock was used from the bench in last week's game against the Reds at Ballymore as Lam suggested his premier prop needed to scrub up some of his form and fitness.

However a week is a long time in rugbyland and the game of the round demands frontline performers especially with fellow All Black frontrower John Afoa in some selection doubt as he battled a calf strain this week. The Blues have a bye next round and will throw their strongest lineup into this match in search of a third straight win before their rest.

Woodcock should square off against fellow All Black prop Owen Franks in a match which will feature a swag of intriguing individual comparisons from test candidates to those making strong impressions like rivals fullbacks Jared Payne and Paul Williams.

The Blues will have to make at least one more change because No 8 Peter Saili damaged a shoulder against the Reds. His place should go to Viliame Ma'afu who played solidly for the Blues in their opening two games.

The other selection debate for the Blues will be about who to use at centre. Isaia Toeava ran at training this week but did not look entirely pain-free to resume the role he had for the first few games. Regular wing Rene Ranger took over at Ballymore and scored a memorable solo try on a difficult night for backline attacks.

Others who could come into consideration for that role would be George Pisi or Anthony Tuitavake.

They are both returning to matchplay after some lengthy injury rehabilitation while Luke McAlister hopes to be available after the bye week after testing his calf muscle injury in club rugby.