The Waratahs have announced their side for their opening Super Rugby AU clash against the Reds on Friday, July 3 at Suncorp Stadium, kicking off at 11:05 South African time. The Waratahs have won their last 11 Super Rugby games against the Reds, however, their away record of late has been poor, they have lost their last four Super Rugby matches on the road by an average margin of 26 points.
Injuries have forced coach Rob Penney to go with a youthful side as injuries to Lalakai Foketi, Karmichael Hunt, Jake Gordon and Tom Robertson were confirmed earlier this week.
Ned Hanigan will play his first game of 2020 after ongoing concussion issues, teaming up with captain Rob Simmons. The loosies have rising star Will Harris at 8 for his first start and Lachie Swinton at blindside flank with veteran Michael Hooper at openside.
Junior Wallaby Joey Walton and Alex Newsome will combine in a new midfield pairing and Jack Maddocks has been picked at 15. Five of the Waratahs' seven starting backs have played 11 games or fewer of Super Rugby. New vice-captain Alex Newsome (48) and Jack Maddocks (41) bump the average number of games in the back line up to 16.2.
Hooker Tom Horton coming into the reserves and Tiaan Tauakipulu, Tepai Moeroa also set to debut for the Waratahs.
Waratahs: 15. Jack Maddocks, 14. James Ramm, 13. Alex Newsome (Vc), 12. Joey Walton, 11. Mark Nawaqanitawase, 10. Will Harrison, 9. Mitch Short, 8. Will Harris, 7. Michael Hooper, 6. Lachlan Swinton, 5. Rob Simmons (C), 4. Ned Hanigan, 3. Harry Johnson-Holmes, 2. Robbie Abel, 1. Angus Bell. Replacements: 16. Tom Horton, 17. Tetera Faulkner, 18. Tiaan Tauakipulu, 19. Tom Staniforth, 20. Jack Dempsey, 21. Michael Mcdonald, 22. Ben Donaldson, 23. Tepai Moeroa.