Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu returns to the starting XV for the Super Rugby Grand Final against the Chiefs at Eden Park on Saturday at 7:05 pm.

The match is sold out, with the Blues hoping to release additional tickets later this week.

Tuipulotu is back just two weeks after tearing the medial ligament in his right knee and was cleared to play after testing his knee during training on Tuesday.

Blues Head Coach Vern Cotter emphasised the thorough medical consideration behind the decision.

“Patty’s a Blues man through and through and came to us this week pretty keen to play in a Grand Final,” said Cotter.

“He tested the knee on Monday in the gym, then on the grass yesterday. He’s pulled up well and has the all-clear from our medical team – he’s a welcome addition to our pack, our talisman lock and leader.”

Blues Team Doctor James McGarvey commented on Tuipulotu’s recovery: “Patty felt good on Monday and with strapping found he was able to do everything rugby related with minimal symptoms. Given it’s a final, he decided to try to work through the week and play.”

Cotter has made minimal changes to his semi-final-winning side, with Josh Beehre making way for Tuipulotu and Bryce Heem returning from a calf injury to take a spot on the bench.

“There’s a deep desire in this group to go the whole way but to do that we need to be clear in our thinking, disciplined and not let the occasion get the better of us,” said Cotter.

“The Chiefs will be coming to spoil the party. We’ve got a sold-out Eden Park that we hope will be awash in blue. This will be a great occasion, and I can feel the excitement building in the group.”

Go the Blues!