Blues hooker and skipper Keven Mealamu will return to the starting side in Saturday night's Super Rugby encounter with the Western Force in Perth.

Mealamu was used as an impact player from the bench in last weekend's 41-32 win over the Lions in Johannesburg.

Blues coach Pat Lam has made seven changes to the side with lock Anthony Boric, openside flanker Daniel Braid and winger Rene Ranger who were also used off the bench last week, return to the run-on side.

One of those changes is forced by injury, with No 8 Peter Saili stood down after a head knock and replaced by Chris Lowrey.

Meanwhile, Toby Morland comes in for Alby Mathewson at halfback and Charlie Faumuina for John Afoa at tighthead prop.

Mathewson and Afoa are both included among the reserves.

Blues team (15-1): Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Jared Payne, Benson Stanley, Rene Ranger, Luke McAlister, Toby Morland, Chris Lowrey, Daniel Braid, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams, Anthony Boric, Charlie Faumuina, Keven Mealamu (Capt), Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Tom McCartney, John Afoa, Kurtis Haiu, Luke Braid, Alby Mathewson, Stephen Brett, Sherwin Stowers.

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