Rugby: Kaino to miss Hurricanes clash

Jerome Kaino of the Blues. Photo / Getty Images.

The struggling Blues will be without captain Jerome Kaino for their clash with the Hurricanes in Palmerston North on Friday as the All Black recovers from a concussion.

Kaino passed a concussion test when he came off for a blood bin in the first half during last Saturday's 13-10 loss to the Lions but did not pass the test the day after the game.

It's a big blow for the Blues, who will be captained by Luke Braid this week, as they search for their first win of the season after dropping their first four games. Brendon O'Connor will wear the No 6 jersey, while Steven Luatua will move to No.8 in Kaino's absence.

Halfback Jimmy Cowan is bracketed with Jamison Gibson-Park as he manages a knee strain, while bench prop Angus Ta'avao (back strain) has been named, although Sam Prattley may be required. George Moala has recovered from a knee complaint and will join the reserves.

Veteran hooker Keven Mealamu will play from the pine this week as James Parsons gets an opportunity to start in an experienced front row that includes international props Tony Woodcock and Charlie Faumuina.

The Hurricanes are undefeated this season and will start as heavy favourites against a Blues team who have failed to fire this year.

Coach John Kirwan is under mounting pressure to get the team going and he maintains he is the best man for the job.

Utility back Dan Bowden continues to be unavailable due to a foot injury and will see a specialist this week.

Blues: Lolagi Visinia, Frank Halai, Charles Piutau, Francis Saili, Melani Nanai, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan/Jamison Gibson-Park, Steven Luatua, Luke Braid (c), Brendon O'Connor, Patrick Tuipulotu, Josh Bekhuis, Charlie Faumuina, James Parsons, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Angus Ta'avao/Sam Prattley, Hayden Triggs, Akira Ioane, Jamison Gibson-Park/Bryn Hall, Simon Hickey, George Moala