The Blues have named a virtually unchanged line-up to face the Waratahs in their Super 14 rugby match in Sydney on Saturday night.

Coach Pat Lam has opted to keep intact the starting 15 from the 39-34 victory over the Brumbies in Auckland last Friday night.

There is one likely change on the bench, with Chris Smylie bracketed with Taniela Moa as back-up halfback.

Smylie rolled an ankle in training on Monday and was still being assessed, but Lam rated him as doubtful.

Lam said the players selected deserved another opportunity after their performance against the Brumbies.

"The acid was on and they fronted," he said.

The Blues had gone into that match after a defeat and their bye in the preceding two rounds.

Meanwhile, Lam said All Blacks midfielder Luke McAlister, who is returning from injury, got plenty of game time in a match on Wednesday between the Blues and the Chiefs' development sides.

"He had a good 60 minutes, which is pleasing, and there's a chance to get a bit more club rugby this weekend," he said.

"We will see how he goes next week."

McAlister, who returned to New Zealand last year after a stint in England, has yet to make his comeback to the Super 14.

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