Fainga'a earns start for Rebels
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Rebels' head coach Tony McGahan has adjusted his midfield and made three changes in the starting line-up, as the Blues head to Melbourne in Round 13 of Super Rugby.
Fainga’a replaces Sean McMahon, who after a bang on his hip and a heavy schedule this year gets a rest, while Tamati Ellison will miss this week due to general soreness.
Harris resumes his starting spot at fullback, after being a late withdrawal last week with a corked thigh.
McGahan was pleased to also welcome Scott Fuglistaller back into the squad for the visit of the Blues.
"Colby [Fainga'a] came on pretty early against the Chiefs and showed just what an important member of our team he is and he will do a great job for us from the start," McGahan said.
"Tom English gets his opportunity on the wing, and we’re also really looking forward to seeing Dom Shipperley move into the midfield coming off a really strong performance last Saturday.
"Mike [Harris] and Scott Fuglistaller come back into the squad and bring some great experience and leadership, against what is a quality opponent with plenty of big-game pedigree."
Rebels: 15 Mike Harris, 14 Tom English, 13 Dom Shipperley, 12 Mitch Inman, 11 Sefanaia Naivalu, 10 Jack Debreczeni, 9 Nic Stirzaker, 8 Scott Higginbotham (captain), 7 Jordy Reid, 6 Colby Fainga’a, 5 Lopeti Timani, 4 Luke Jones, 3 Paul Alo-Emile, 2 Pat Leafa, 1 Toby Smith.
Replacements: 16 Tom Sexton, 17 Cruze Ah-Nau, 18 Tim Metcher, 19 Cadeyrn Neville, 20 Scott Fuglistaller, 21 Luke Burgess, 22 Bryce Hegarty, 23 Telusa Veainu.
Date: Friday, May 8
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 19.40 (21.40 NZST, 09.40 GMT)
Referee: Angus Gardner (Australia)
Assistant referees: James Leckie, Graham Cooper
TMO: Ian Smith
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