Rugby: Kirwan sticks with Cowan at halfback

Jimmy Cowan of the Blues during the Super Rugby match between DHL Stormers and Blues. Photo / Getty Images.

Blues coach John Kirwan has stuck with Jimmy Cowan at halfback for tomorrow night's match against the Rebels in Melbourne.

Part of the reasoning to select the veteran rather than the quicker Jamison Gibson-Park would have been due to the fact that Dan Bowden has been ruled out with a groin injury.

That leaves the relatively inexperienced Ihaia West starting at No10. Cowan will be seen as a steadying factor for West, who will have Simon Hickey backing him up on the reserves bench.

Cowan's delivery was often laboured in the 41-24 victory over the Force at Eden Park, although his pass was crucial in sending away left wing Melani Nanai for the first of his two tries.

Lolagi Visinia moves from right wing to fullback, replacing Charles Piutau, who is out for the season with a knee injury. Tevita Li starts on the wing.

Lock Patrick Tuipulotu remains out with a groin injury, with flanker Luke Braid's immediate future uncertain due to his third concussion of the season, and Jerome Kaino gone for the season due to his dislocated finger.

Prop Charlie Faumuina and hooker James Parsons have been rested.

Blues team to play the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday, kick-off 9.40pm is: Lolagi Visinia, Melani Nanai, Francis Saili, George Moala, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan, Steven Luatua (c), Brendon O'Connor, Akira Ioane, Hayden Triggs, Culum Retallick, Angus Ta'avao, Keven Mealamu. Reserves: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Sam Prattley, Josh Bekhuis, Joe Edwards, Jamison Gibson-Park, Simon Hickey, Hamish Northcott.