The Highlanders have been hard hit by injuries this season, having six players out for the rest of the season, but the Blues have also lost plenty of personnel, and key players have been laid low.
The side which sits on the bottom of the New Zealand conference has endured a wretched run of injuries, which shows no sign of abating as the season draws to its climax.
The team has long-term casualties such as loose forwards Jerome Kaino and Brad Mika, lock Anthony Boric and utility back Isaia Toeava.
Captain Keven Mealamu is also battling a calf strain and is in doubt for the All Black June internationals, so is unlikely to front up against the Highlanders on Saturday night.
Fellow front-rower Charlie Faumunia is a non-starter after picking up a calf injury two weeks ago in the win over the Lions.
One player who will definitely not be seen is midfield back Benson Stanley, who was concussed on Saturday night in the heavy loss to the Crusaders in Christchurch.
Stanley has a history of concussion and Blues coach Pat Lam said he was unlikely to play for the rest of the season.
Stanley has signed a deal to play in France at the end of the season, so will not be seen in the Blues jersey again.
There was hope outside back Rudi Wulf, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, may become available again and he is likely to come straight back into the starting side to replace Stanley.
Stanley played on the left wing last week.
Loose forward Chris Lowrey could also be a starter this week as he recovers from a concussion he picked up against the Hurricanes three weeks ago.
Lowrey will be needed, as the loose forwards failed to impose themselves against the Crusaders in last week's 59-12 loss.
Former Southern club player Cam Goodhue, who now plays rugby in Northland, was brought on to the Blues bench last week as loose forward cover, and may be in the mix again.
The Highlanders have had a well-documented run of injured players but have managed to still stay in contention for the playoffs.
The side picked up no major injuries from the win over the Bulls on Saturday night and will be looking to complete the double over the Blues.
With four of the top six sides playing each other this weekend, the Highlanders have a real chance to get right back into playoff contention with a victory.
