The Blues coaching staff has a crisis at lock heading into what shapes as a must-win game against the Crusaders on Anzac Day

Captain Patrick Tuipulotu remains sidelined with an issue affecting his neck and shoulder and won't be considered.

Fellow second-rower Josh Goodhue will also be missing following a head knock, with Tom Robinson who can also cover the position also out with the same type of injury.

That leaves Gerard Cowley-Tuioti and Sam Darry to likely start against the Crusaders.

One player that is returning is hooker Kurt Eklund, having served a three match suspension for a wrestling style throw of Sevu Reece in their last meeting against the Crusaders.



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