Rugby: Michael Collins re-signs with Blues - 'Change will happen here'

Michael Collins. Photosport

Blues fullback Michael Collins has re-committed to the franchise by signing a one-year extension to his contract.

Injury and a recent preference from coach Tana Umaga to select Matt Duffie at the back means Collins hasn't had as many opportunities this year as he did last year, his first with the Blues, when he played all but one round-robin match.

Collins, a solid decision maker who is good under the high ball and can attack well on the counter, has played eight of the Blues' 12 matches so far this season and said he believed in the direction the team were going. He signed even before the confirmation that Leon MacDonald, a former All Blacks fullback, will join the franchise as an assistant coach for three years starting next season.

"I've re-signed for another year which I'm excited about," the 24-year-old said. "I honestly believe change will happen here and I want to be part of that.

"I was lucky with T [Umaga] giving me a chance. If I can contribute in any way I'll be happy with that."

The Blues will be extremely disappointed not to break their duck at Eden Park this season when they host the Rebels late on Saturday afternoon, and making their task that much more difficult is the probability they will not select their best strike weapon Rieko Ioane due to the All Blacks' rest protocol.

Ioane's pace and power was extraordinary in a losing effort to the Crusaders before their bye last weekend. Should Ioane have a rest, as expected, before next weekend's first test against France at Eden Park, Collins will almost definitely start in the No15 jersey.

Collins said: "From an outsider's perspective you probably only see losses and that's 100 per cent understandable but from in the camp the belief has always been there and everyone gets on.

"I believe in the direction we're heading and what we're trying to achieve."

The Blues, second to last on the table with only the Sunwolves below them, waved goodbye to their playoff hopes months ago and have four round-robin matches remaining.

In an extraordinary run of results, the Blues have lost to the Chiefs, Sharks, Highlanders, Jaguares, Hurricanes and Crusaders at what was previously their fortress.

"We've got two New Zealand derbies and two games against Australian teams in which to make a statement and that's what we intend to do."

Asked about the Blues' appalling home record, Collins said: "In the past we haven't been able to win away or win two in a row so I have no doubt that will change."