Reiko Ioane

Rieko Ioane missing big brother Akira in Blues milestone

The elder brother has long been regarded as one of the most talented loose forwards in NZ rugby, but has so far fallen short of his potential, playing just once for the national side, despite ample opportunities to impress.

Akira Ioane, 24, has already logged a half ton for the Blues - including every game for the past two seasons - but coach Leon MacDonald insists he's one of several unlucky players to miss the cut for the opening game of the new Super Rugby season, making way for Hoskins Sotutu's first start at No.8.

Rieko Ioane visits A&E after 'high-jinks' with Blues team-mate

In a statement, the Blues say "some high-jinks between Ioane and another player at the small gathering at a private residence, resulted in the Blues winger receiving a knock above his eye which was treated with medical glue at a local A&E clinic."

"We were just poking fun at each other. It's not serious and I've apologised to my team-mates and the club," said Ioane.

Blues CEO Michael Redman said the club will check on the incident this week to determine if there were any breaches of team protocol.