Umanga's Changes Cop Criticism

Tana Umaga's refusing to guarantee a return to the 9-10 duo that started their season for this weekend's Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes.

The Blues coach switched Bryn Hall and Ihaia West out for the untested duo of Billy Guyton and Matt McGahan in the loss to the Crusaders.

The changes copped plenty of criticism before and after the game and Umaga says they suffered by not having a lot of ball.

He says if they think it is the best thing for the week then that'll happen but they didn't use the ball as best they can.

The Blues could have Charlie Faumuina back available to start in their Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes on Friday.

The All Blacks prop has come off the bench for their opening two games but is contention to start after a planned recovery process following a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, Umaga says their scrum needs to step up this week.

"There's no doubt about it. I think the line out as well, our set piece. We didn't perform as well as we would have liked. We need to get better, because that's on show for everyone to see." 

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