Auckland, Feb 25 NZPA - The Blues today made three changes to their starting 15 to face the Reds in their Super 14 rugby clash in Brisbane this weekend, including inserting Rene Ranger at centre.

Usually a winger, Ranger fills in for the injured Isaia Toeva, who went off during the win over the Highlanders last Friday with a hip problem.

At prop, Charlie Faumuina is elevated from the bench in a swap with Tony Woodcock.

Faumuina's inclusion has also resulted in a reshuffle in the front row, with John Afoa moving to loosehead.

In the other personnel change for the match at Ballymore on Saturday, Peter Saili will start at No 8, with Viliami Ma'afu going to the reserves.

Blues: Paul Williams, Joe Rokocoko, Rene Ranger, Benson Stanley, Rudi Wulf, Stephen Brett, Alby Mathewson, Peter Saili, Serge Lilo, Jerome Kaino, Anthony Boric, Kurtis Haiu, Charlie Faumuina, Keven Mealamu (captain), John Afoa.

Reserves: Tom McCartney, Tony Woodcock, Filo Paulo, Viliami Ma'afu, Chris Smylie, Daniel Kirkpatrick, Lachie Munro/George Pisi.