Two of the biggest superstars in Super Rugby Pacific will go head-to-head after Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Damian McKenzie were named at fullback for Friday's clash between the NSW Waratahs and Chiefs.
Suaalii was retained at the back for the match at Allianz Stadium, with Damian McKenzie shifted from flyhalf to accommodate Josh Jacomb.
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“I feel like he's a threat every time he touches the ball," Suaalii told reporters on McKenzie.
“In the backfield, I've got to make sure I'm covering the grass and for all players, we've got to know where he is on the field."
Suaalii thrived at fullback against Moana Pasifika and was enjoying the change from the centres, where he debuted at Test level.
“I've been enjoying it, the 15 jersey allows me to see the game from a different perspective.
“There are a lot of things I need to work on, but I'm enjoying the, you know, the ride of learning the 15 position.”
Waratahs coach Dan McKellar has handed Jamie Adamson his maiden start at flanker, with Charlie Gamble out with illness.
Joey Walton returns to the starting side at inside centre, with Henry O'Donnell and Leafi Talataina.
“Injuries have played a part at different times this season, but overall there’s a growing consistency in selection, which is important,” McKellar said.
“Outside of Charlie being unavailable, and a few longer-term injuries, it’s a squad that’s building nicely.
“We’re comfortable with the 23 we’ve picked for what’s going to be a huge game.
"(The Chiefs) are a side that’s probably favoured to win the comp. We know the challenge that’s in front of us, but we’re excited by it."
WARATAHS (1-15): Angus Bell, Ethan Dobbins, Daniel Botha, Hugh Sinclair (c), Ben Grant, Rob Leota, Jamie Adamson, Langi Gleeson, Teddy Wilson, Lawson Creighton, Triston Reilly, Joey Walton, Lalakai Foketi, Andrew Kellaway, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
Replacements: Julian Heaven, Isaac Kailea, Taniela Tupou, Miles Amatosero, Leafi Talataina, Jack Grant, Jack Bowen, Henry O'Donnell
