Reds change four for Rebels
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: The Queensland Reds have made four changes to their starting XV for Saturday’s match against the Rebels in Melbourne.
In his 50th game for Queensland, Hamish Stewart returns to the starting side in the No.12 jersey reuniting with Hunter Paisami in the centres.
Bryce Hegarty also comes off the bench and will start at fullback seeing Jock Campbell shift to the wing along with Jordan Petaia following a hamstring injury to Suliasi Vunivalu.
After serving a three-match suspension, versatile prop Feao Fotuaika reclaims his place in the front row, while Harry Wilson will start at No.8.
Wilson’s inclusion in the starting side sees Seru Uru drop back to the bench in one-of-four changes to the Reds’ reserves this week.
Lock Angus Blyth is back in the 23 for Saturday’s game, so too Josh Flook with Filipo Daugunu set to come-on as a finisher at AAMI Park.
Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “The Rebels in Melbourne will be a tough contest. We’re looking forward to the challenge ahead on Saturday.
“It’s great to have Feao back. He’s served his suspension and slots back in the starting side.
“Bryce has earned the right to start this week. It’ll be his 99th Super Rugby game. He’ll do his job at fullback for us with Jock and Jordan shifting to the wing.
“Hamish will bring up his 50th cap for Queensland. He’s worked hard in our program and is a valued member of this group. It’s a special achievement for Hamish and we congratulate him on reaching this milestone,” said Thorn.
Reds: 15 Bryce Hegarty, 14 Jordan Petaia, 13 Hunter Paisami, 12 Hamish Stewart, 11 Jock Campbell, 10 James O’Connor (captain), 9 Tate McDermott, 8 Harry Wilson, 7 Fraser McReight, 6 Angus Scott-Young, 5 Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 4 Ryan Smith, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 1 Feao Fotuaika.
Replacements: 16 Alex Mafi, 17 Richie Asiata, 18 Zane Nonggorr, 19 Angus Blyth, 20 Seru Uru, 21 Kalani Thomas, 22 Josh Flook, 23 Filipo Daugunu.
Date: Saturday, April 3
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 19.45 (18.45 AEST; 08.45 GMT)
Referee: TBC
Assistant referees: TBC
TMO: TBC
