Melbourne Rebels backrower Vaiolini Ekuasi is looking to bring a physical edge to the side ahead of Friday's clash with Moana Pasifika.
Ekuasi will start at openside flanker, replacing Brad Wilkin after coach Kevin Foote confirmed he will miss the majority of the season with a hamstring injury.
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Wilkin suffered a grade three tear, set to undergo surgery in the coming days. It will likely keep him out for ten weeks.
The flanker only recently brought up his 50th game in Super Rugby, however, must deal with another major setback after three separate ACL injuries early in his career.
It presents an opportunity for Auckland-born Ekuasi to start his first game of the season, emerging as one of the buys of the season in 2023.
"Vaiolini has had an unbelievable two years with us at the Rebels," Foote said on Ekuasi.
"He had a brilliant pre-season and when I chatted to him before, he's having great impact off the bench and he's such a humble guy and he does whatever the team needs.
"I think the way he is playing he deserves a start, he's very physical but also exceptional in the wide channels."
Ekuasi has been largely used as a number eight in the past, but was excited about the new challenge.
"I haven't had too much experience at seven but I'm up for the challenge," he said.
"Coming back to Hamilton is pretty special because home is just an hour away so it's easy for my family to get here.
"What is most important is that I play my game and not try to get caught up trying to play the seven role too much."
Foote has also called Jake Strachan into the starting side, with Filipo Daugunu replacing Matt Proctor in the centres, who is likely out for a month.
It pushes Andrew Kellaway to the wing despite ending 2023 as the Wallabies incumbent.
"I don't see it as a risk. I think 'Kells' is a really exceptional finisher both for the Wallabies and Rebels," Foote added.
"'Strachany' comes in as a second ballplayer with a really good kicking game so it's not a risk on my eyes.
"It'll be good for our flow both attack and defence."
