Reds bolster bench for Sharks clash
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Queensland Reds coach Brad Thorn is backing the depth in his squad to deliver back-to-back wins after recalling Angus Scott-Young to start against the Sharks and naming Wallabies flank Lukhan Salakaia-Loto on the bench.
Scott-Young wasn’t part of the Reds’ squad that destroyed the Sunwolves last weekend, but will combine with lock Harry Hockings and Izack Rodda before Salakaia-Loto is unleashed late at Suncorp Stadium.
Wing Filipo Daugunu has completed a five-match suspension for a dangerous tackle and will replace Bryce Hegarty on the bench.
The Sharks (3-1) have presented as one of Super Rugby’s most impressive outfits this season with their speed on the flanks proving too much for the Melbourne Rebels in Ballarat last weekend.
A trip to New Zealand to face defending champions the Crusaders next weekend ensures a testing fortnight for the Reds (1-3) after their record-breaking 64-5 win last Saturday.
Reds: 15 Jock Campbell, 14 Chris Feauai-Sautia, 13 Hunter Paisami, 12 Hamish Stewart, 11 Henry Speight, 10 James O’Connor, 9 Tate McDermott, 8 Harry Wilson, 7 Liam Wright, 6 Angus Scott-Young, 5 Harry Hockings, 4 Izack Rodda, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Alex Mafi, 1 JP Smith.
Replacements: 16 Ed Craig, 17 Harry Hoopert, 18 Josh Nasser, 19 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 20 Fraser McReight, 21 Scott Malolua, 22 Isaac Lucas, 23 Filipo Daugunu.
Date: Saturday, February 29
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Kick-off: 18.15 (10.15 SA time; 08.15 GMT)
Referee: Brendon Pickerill (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Graham Cooper (Australia), Jordan Way (Australia)
TMO: James Leckie (Australia)
