4 May 2014

Blues midfield looking thin

11:06 am on 4 May 2014

The Blues' midfield stocks have taken a hit with both Francis Saili and Jackson Willison set to be sidelined for extended periods of time.

Willison suffered a proximal hamstring strain while scoring a try against the Reds in the Blues Super Rugby win on Friday night and is likely to miss between four to six weeks.

Saili was ruled out of action on Wednesday after sustaining a high ankle sprain during team training.

Further X-rays yesterday were clear but his ankle is still swollen and he will have an MRI scan in the next few days.

He is expected to be out of action for six to eight weeks.

Outside back Albert Nikoro also has a cartilage tear in his knee and requires a review with a surgeon.

Luke Braid, Chris Noakes and Sam Prattley are all fit and available this week.