Having a repaired Tony Woodcock, James Parsons and Charlie Faumuina ready to tussle with the Chiefs at Albany on Saturday is encouraging for the Blues but nothing more.
They had their tails trimmed against the Chiefs in a recent pre-season hit out at Whangarei although those games often give a false reading on what lies ahead. The duel at North Harbour Stadium will provide a better gauge on each side's roster, how they have gelled during the off-season and what they can bring to this year's 20th series.
Mealamu is getting set for a remarkable 15th season but his record-breaking 163rd appearance will have to wait until he links up with the Blues when they return from South Africa and play the Lions at Albany in the fourth round.
That absence gives Parsons another stage to deliver the consistent work he showed last year which ultimately, presented him with an All Black appearance on the end of year tour.
While some sides will look to work their way into their campaigns, the heat on the Blues demands a start with enough substance to take them through five games until their first bye. If the Blues struggle or are swamped, all the gags about their pre-season training capsize on the way to Rangitoto will reappear.
There will be less emphasis on rugby while the World Cup cricket is bowling along. However teams and those players in the frame for international consideration know how crucial this season is for many reasons.
Those demands may be the most severe on the Blues who have under-delivered in many layers of the franchise for too long.
When new captain Jerome Kaino admits their last campaign was "mediocre" you can be sure the internal assessment was even harsher. That view may be behind the unfortunate listing on the franchise website which says they finished 15th last year when they were five places higher.
It probably felt worse as the Blues failed to reach the playoffs again.
They discovered a star lock in Patrick Tuipulotu however union agreements mean he will bypass Saturday's start against the Chiefs. The Herald understands Kaino will begin the match with other All Blacks Steven Luatua, Charles Piutau and the front row all involved. The team will be confirmed today after training and it's expected Ihaia West will be given first chance to test his talents at first five eighths outside former All Black Jimmy Cowan.
West made a strong impression with his attacking game when he was called up last season and continued that work with Hawkes Bay. Like the international hopefuls, West needs to fend off the second year syndrome to give the Blues a boost they are craving.
- By Wynne Gray of the New Zealand Herald
