While several big names return for the battle with the Blues, Newsome will again wear the number 11 jersey.

Force head coach Dave Wessels has rejigged the backline with Bill Meakes coming back into inside centre after recovering from an ankle complaint, and Marcel Brache moving to outside centre.

Wallaby Dane Haylett-Petty also returns at fullback and will be looking to pick up where he left against the Brumbies in round three.

Wessels says his team needs to improve on last week’s performance and taking on the Blues at Eden Park provides the opportunity to do so.

“We know that to turn around the outcome of last week we need to be a lot better in a number of key areas – not least our defence. It’s great to have the experience of Dane, Billy and ‘Hodgo’ back in the side this week,” he said.

“The boys have trained really hard this week under difficult circumstances and I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this team.”