Tetera Faulkner returns to the Western Force starting XV after recovering from a knee injury during pre-season.
Faulkner is one of six changes to the Force starting side as they begin a three-week tour of New Zealand against 2015 finalists the Hurricanes.
Former Springbok flyhalf Peter Grant earns his first start for the Force for the injured Jono Lance, while Marcel Brache comes onto the left wing for Luke Morahan and Alby Mathewson will start at halfback ahead of Ian Prior.
In changes to the forwards, Angus Cottrell will team up with Matt Hodgson and Ben McCalman in the backrow, and Nathan Charles will start hooker after being named on the bench against the Brumbies last week.
Head Coach Michael Foley said the clash with the Hurricanes is obviously an important one, with the team wanting to kick the three-week New Zealand tour off with a win.
“Playing the Hurricanes at home is always a tough match, but we look forward to the challenge and are eager to test ourselves against last year’s minor premiers.”
“The Hurricanes are a dangerous team with threats all over the park, but we will stick to our game style and focus on playing at pace.”
The Hurricanes have received a huge blow this week with All Blacks back Nehe Milner-Skudder being ruled out for the remainder of the season with a shoulder injury.
The Western Force play the Hurricanes at 5:30pm AEDT Friday evening LIVE on FOX SPORTS.
TEAM
1. Pekahou Cowan
2. Nathan Charles
3. Tetera Faulkner
4. Ross Haylett-Petty
5. Adam Coleman
6. Angus Cottrell
7. Matt Hodgson
8. Ben McCalman
9. Alby Mathewson
10. Peter Grant
11. Semisi Masirewa
12. Solomoni (Junior Rasolea)
13. Ben Tapuai
14. Marcel Brache
15. Dane Haylett-Petty
RESERVES
16. Chris Heiberg
17. Heath Tessmann
18. Jermaine Ainsley
19. Sitiveni (Stevie) Mafi
20. Brynard Stander
21. Ryan Louwrens
22. Ian Prior
23. Albert Nikoro
