Augustine Pulu

Pulu to captain the Blues

Coach Tana Umaga said Pulu, along with previous captains Jerome Kaino and James Parsons, form part of the senior leadership group.

"Both James and Jerome are sidelined for some time from surgeries and I wanted our captain to take the reins on the paddock from day one of training.

"Of course both James and Jerome will continue to play invaluable leadership roles in this team and will be key contributors in all aspects.

"Augie has proven captaincy experience in the Mitre-10 Cup and will add a fresh spark to the team."

Pulu banned for two weeks

It means Pulu's Mitre 10 Cup season is over, with Counties-Manukau out of premiership semifinal contention and just one regular season match remaining against Tasman on Saturday.

Pulu was red carded for a dangerous tackle on Manawatu's Jade Te Rure in the 75th minute of last week's match in Palmerston North, which Counties-Manukau won 29-24.

He faced a hearing before New Zealand Rugby judicial officer Nigel Hampton QC on Saturday.