Blues coach John Kirwan on Monday revealed that he had signed four players who have yet to sample Super Rugby, including two from the Hurricanes region.
Taranaki duo Waisake Naholo and Kane Barrett, along with Counties Manukau pivot Baden Kerr and North Harbour scrumhalf Bryn Hall have agreed two-year contracts with the Auckland-based franchise.
The rookies are joined in committing their immediate future to the Blues by No.8 Peter Saili, who was signed on for another year.
Kerr is expected to vie with Chris Noakes for the No.10 jersey, while wing Naholo replaces Toulon-bound Rudi Wulf.
Barrett, who can play lock and loose forward, is a former captain of NZ secondary schools.
Kirwan said the players, aged between 20 and 23, fit their criteria and would blend with more experienced players in the squad.
"As we continue to secure the squad we want for next season, we are thrilled to include these four players," Kirwan said.
"They fit the criteria for the types of players we are looking for in their respective positions as well as how they will mesh with those already in the squad.
"It is a balancing act of mixing young and exciting with the older, more experienced heads and how you blend both those components together across a long season.”
Both Hall and Naholo have represented New Zealand at Under-20 level, while Kerr and Barrett have played representative rugby at provincial level.
All four players will experience their first taste of Super Rugby in 2013 and can't wait.
"The Blues is the team I've always supported, and to now be part of that squad under the pretty impressive coaching team is really exciting,” said Kerr.
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.