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The Blues have sprung somewhat of a surprise with two of their All Blacks props to come off the bench in the season opener

The Blues have sprung somewhat of a surprise with two of their All Blacks props to come off the bench in the season opener

25 February 2021

Samoan international James Lay and All Blacks tighthead Nepo Laulala will make their franchise debuts as the starting props, with Karl Tu'inukuafe and Ofa Tuungafasi to come off the bench.

Coach Leon Macdonald says Lay impressed for Auckland last season.

Fellow prop Alex Hodgman is out with an ankle injury.

Elsewhere, Harry Plummer gets the nod at second five with TJ Faiane injured.

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