All Blacks star Beauden Barrett has been withdrawn from the Blues' matchday 23 to face the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium - the same day the side confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in their squad.
Originally named to start for the Blues at first-five, Barrett does not feature in the team's updated 23, named less than an hour before kick-off.
In his absence, Stephen Perofeta moves from fullback into the No.10 jersey, with Zarn Sullivan moving from the bench to start at No.15.
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens takes Sullivan's spot on the bench.
Elsewhere, fellow All Black Nepo Laulala is another to have been withdrawn from the Blues's squad, replaced in the starting side by Marcel Renata at loosehead prop.
Jordan Lay takes Renata's place on the bench in the No.18 jersey.
Lastly, reserve halfback Sam Nock has also been withdrawn from the side, and replaced on the bench by Taufa Funaki.
The Blues confirmed positive COVID cases in their side earlier on Friday, but assured their clash against the Highlanders would still go ahead.
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