The Blues have featured in 5 Super finals, including the inaugural Super 10 final, winning 3 out of 5 and having made it to the knockout stages a total of 6 times. Not a bad record by any means, but they have failed to live up to their own capabilities in the last couple of years, with their last playoff being in 2007.

The Blues have always enjoyed the services of a steady number of All Blacks within their ranks. With senior All Black, Kevin Mealamu playing the role of captain, and returning All Black inside back, Luke “tree trunk” McAlister likely to play a huge role within the backline, the Blues won’t be without strong senior leadership.

In my opinion, the Blues are always going to be one of the toughest outfits to beat, and 2010 isn’t going to any different. They have been shadowed by their neighbours down South, the Crusaders, in recent years, but one has the feeling this year’s competition is going to be a lot more closely contested. 

The Blues have also been bolstered by the signing of Stephan Brett (Crusaders) and Albie Mathewson (Hurricanes). They, together with other All Blacks, Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Anthony Tuitavake, Luke McAlister and Rudi Wulf will be making up one of the deadliest backlines in this year’s competition.

Players to watch:

• Jerome Kaino is always a force to deal with in the loose.
• Luke McAlister’s legs should be registered as deadly weapons.
• Rudi Wulf is the fastest All Black ever over 40m, in any form of the sport.
• New recruit, Stephen Brett will be wanting to stick his hand up for All Black selection.
• Isaia Toeava is always deadly on the counter attack.
• Joe Rokocoko.

This is what they’ve been up to in preparation: [Auckland Rugby]

Possible concerns:

• Ali Williams was injured during today’s pre season game against the Hurricanes, which means the Blues’ lineout might be struggling once again this season
• The Blues habit of under achieving during the business end of things in recent seasons.

BSR’s prediction for the Blues’ best possible finish: definite playoff contenders