Blake Gibson blow for Blues

Blues will be without Blake Gibson for the majority of the Super Rugby season after the flanker suffered a fractured thumb.

The New Zealand under-20 international will be out of action until after the June international window due to an injury sustained in training this week.

Gibson may need surgery, which is a major blow to Blues as they prepare to face Sharks at Eden Park on Saturday.

Tanerau Latimer could make his Blues debut in the absence of Gibson if the former Chiefs man proves he has recovered from a long-term calf injury.

Kara Pryor may be handed a first Blues start against Sharks as they attempt to respond from their defeat to Chiefs last Friday.