The Blues have re-signed three of their best young players for an extra year at the Super Rugby franchise.

Flanker Steven Luatua, 21, fullback Charles Piutau, 21, and midfield back Francis Saili, 22, have recommitted to the Blues until the end of 2015.

All have represented New Zealand at under-20 level and are regarded as long-range prospects to play for the All Blacks at the 2015 World Cup.

The trio have played in all seven Blues matches this season.

Luatua and Piutau will start in Friday’s match against the Reds in Brisbane but Saili has been demoted to the reserve bench as punishment after being charged by police for driving while suspended two weeks ago.

Saili made a brief appearance in court on Tuesday but his case was adjourned to next month, with no plea entered.