Francis cleared for Blues in Super Rugby

Playmaker Piers Francis has overcome a thumping blow to the head to start for the Blues against the Chiefs at Eden Park.

Being knocked unconscious hasn't prevented Piers Francis from retaining his place in the Blues' side for their Super Rugby clash with the Chiefs.

The home side have made two starting changes for Friday's match at Eden Park, with Michael Collins promoted from the bench to fullback, along with All Black Patrick Tuipulotu to lock.

Francis will wear No.10 for the ninth time this year, shaking off the effects of a thumping head-high tackle in last week's 30-22 loss to the Stormers in Cape Town.

In a Blues statement, team doctor Stephen Kara said Francis had not developed any further symptoms after undergoing a full concussion testing protocol.

Collins usurps Melani Nanai while Tuipulotu ousts Gerard Cowley-Tuioti as the Blues seek to end a woeful record against their northern rivals, having lost their last 11 games to the Chiefs.

Blues: Michael Collins, Matt Duffie, George Moala, Sonny Bill Williams, Rieko Ioane, Piers Francis, Augustine Pulu, Akira Ioane, Blake Gibson, Steven Luatua, Scott Scrafton, Patrick Tuipulotu, Charlie Faumuina, James Parsons (capt), Ofa Tu'ungafasi. Reserves: Epalahame Faiva, Alex Hodgman, Sione Mafileo, Gerard Cowley-Tuioti, Kara Pryor, Sam Nock, Stephen Perofeta, TJ Faiane.