British and Irish Lions

Versatile All Black inside-half McAlister steps in for centres Isaia Toeava (shoulder) and Sam Tuitupou (knee), who failed fitness checks after last week's win over the Crusaders.

Anthony Tuitavake partners North Harbour team-mate McAlister in the midfield, with Rudi Wulf moving on to the wing as the Ranfurly Shield holders provide five of the six outside backs.

Blues: George Pisi, Doug Howlett, Anthony Tuitavake, Luke McAlister, Rudi Wulf, Isa Nacewa, David Gibson; Saimone Taumoepeau, Derren Witcombe, John Afoa, Greg Rawlinson, Troy Flavell (c), Angus Macdonald, Daniel Braid, Jerome Kaino.

Reserves: Chris Heard, Nick White, Anthony Boric, Justin Collins, Steve Devine, David Holwell, Ben Atiga.

Qantas Wallabies head coach Robbie Deans says Quade Cooper could still line up against the Lions despite missing out on his 25-man squad this morning.

The Waratahs upset the odds by beating Super Rugby leaders the Brumbies 28-22, but the game came at a huge cost to Qantas Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.