Rugby: Bowden gets chance at last for Blues

Dan Bowden. Photo / Getty Images

After weeks of sitting on the sideline and waiting for his foot to heal - including on a wasted trip to South Africa - Dan Bowden finally gets his chance this week.

Bowden is a significant change for the Blues as they search for their first win of the season. He will start at No10 in Sydney against the Waratahs ahead of Ihaia West as coach John Kirwan puts his faith in experience after five defeats from five.

Bowden, a former Northland and Auckland representative, signed for the Blues for two years after playing in UK and Japan for the past four years. Before that his travels including playing for the Crusaders and Highlanders. He has been around a bit so is likely to be confident about being thrust into the hot seat against the defending champions.

Ihaia West, who has kicked 56 points in five games, but who clearly has much to learn at this level, gets a break after playing virtually every minute this year. West can be an exciting ball carrier, but his decision making on attack has not been the best. Bowden will hope to remedy that on Saturday night.

Hayden Triggs starts at lock alongside All Black Patrick Tuipuloto, with Josh Bekhuis sidelined by concussion, while Brendon O'Connor starts at No 7 with Luke Braid on the bench.

There are several players returning to the squad for the first time after early-season injuries including George Moala who has his first start at centre, with Pita Ahki and lock Culum Retallick on the bench. It will be Retallick's first match for the Blues in two seasons after his comeback from knee surgery last year.

All Black Charles Piutau will move fullback after playing two games at centre. His move there gives the backline a more balanced look. The under-pressure Kirwan will hope it's enough to tip the result the Blues' way.

The Blues team to play the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, kick-off 9.40pm is: Charles Piutau, Frank Halai, George Moala, Francis Saili, Melani Nanai, Dan Bowden, Jimmy Cowan, Jerome Kaino (c), Brendon O'Connor, Steven Luatua, Patrick Tuipulotu, Hayden Triggs, Charlie Faumuina, James Parsons, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Ofa Tu'ungafasi/Sam Prattley, Angus Ta'avao, Culum Retallick, Luke Braid, Jamison Gibson-Park, Simon Hickey, Pita Ahki.