CONFIRMED: O'Connor to miss Crusaders clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Queensland Reds have made three changes to their starting XV for Friday’s clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch.
Isaac Lucas will wear the No.10 jersey for the second time this season with James O’Connor a late withdrawal due to an ankle injury.
Scott Malolua will start at scrumhalf in a new-look halves combination alongside Lucas, while Lukhan Salakaia-Loto also comes into the starting side at lock.
Malolua’s promotion sees Tate McDermott set to come on as a finisher in one-of-four changes to the reserves.
Bryce Hegarty has been recalled into Queensland’s 23 following Lucas’ elevation to flyhalf.
Dane Zander comes in for Harry Hoopert as a replacement loosehead prop with Angus Blyth also taking his place in this week’s side.
Reds: 15 Jock Campbell, 14 Chris Feauai-Sautia, 13 Hunter Paisami, 12 Hamish Stewart, 11 Henry Speight, 10 Isaac Lucas, 9 Scott Malolua, 8 Harry Wilson, 7 Liam Wright (captain), 6 Angus Scott-Young, 5 Harry Hockings, 4 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Alex Mafi, 1 JP Smith.
Replacements: 16 Ed Craig, 17 Dane Zander, 18 Josh Nasser, 19 Angus Blyth, 20 Fraser McReight, 21 Tate McDermott, 22 Bryce Hegarty, 23 Filipo Daugunu.
Date: Friday, March 6
Venue: Christchurch Stadium, Christchurch
Kick-off: 19.05 (16.05 AEST; 06.05 GMT)
Referee: Rasta Rasivhenge
Assistant referees: Mike Fraser, Brendon Pickerill
TMO: Shane McDermott
