Kaino to take Blues' reins

 

The 49-cap All Black is the most likely candidate to lead the team out in the absence of Luke Braid, who is struggling with a shoulder injury.

 

Kaino has played just two games and started just once for the Blues since his return from playing his rugby for Verblitz in Japan, but coach John Kirwan sees him as the obvious choice.

 

"Someone like Jerome is putting his hand up pretty quick. 

 

"He'll probably take over the captaincy role for us," Kirwan told Fairfax NZ News.

 

The injury problems for the Blues have worsened this week, after lock Tom Donnelly was ruled out with a calf injury, with Braid, No.8 Peter Saili (foot) and centre Jackson Willison (knee) all struggling with niggles.

 

The Blues mentor knows what a vital asset Braid is to the side and he knows he needs to be managed properly.

 

"We need to be careful with him," Kirwan said of his openside flank.

 

"It's not great, we've got a beaten up Jackson Willison this week and with Tom Donnelly out we're struggling a wee bit.

 

"Jacko [Willison] is probably going to be unavailable this week. 

 

"Luke Braid is really struggling as well and Peter Saili is in a moonboot.

 

With Donnelly and Patrick Tuipulotu out of action and Culum Retallick ruled out for the season with an ACL rupture, it means that the only fit locks in the squad are Hayden Triggs and Liaki Moli.

 

We'll probably use Steven [Luatua] to cover lock late in the game," Kirwan admitted.

 

The good news for the Blues is that All Black centre Francis Saili is back from injury and should take his place in the squad for the Brumbies game.

 

"I don't think Francis is ready to start yet. 

 

"We'll probably bring him off the bench late in the game," Kirwan added.