Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss has called on the big guns for the top-of-the-table match with the Chiefs, with seven Wallabies returning to the squad for Friday's match.
This includes Wallabies captain Harry Wilson and superstar flanker Fraser McReight, with McReight cleared after a shoulder injury picked up during the win over the NSW Waratahs last month.
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Hooper Matt Faessler comes into the squad alongside the experienced duo of Jeffery Toomaga-Allen and Alex Hodgman.
Along with this, Tate McDermott takes back the captaincy after his brief stint on the bench, and Hunter Paisami is named to play after his late withdrawal.
On the bench, Jock Campbell has been selected for the first time since Round Two.
“Hunter has been a fantastic influence on how Dre has developed this season. Dre has made the most of every minute he has had this season and his positive attitude has been first class. I'm looking forward to seeing Dre's partnership with Hunter,” Les Kiss said.
"Up front, Matty Faessler is back to be pillared by Jeffery and Alex in a scrum that is going exceptionally well for us.”
Meanwhile, Kiss has opted for young ten Harry McLaughlin-Phillips to start as they hunt for top spot on the SMARTECH Super Rugby Pacific ladder.
McLaughlin-Phillips last started in Round Four against the Crusaders and swaps with Tom Lynagh.
“It’s a great ground to play rugby at. It's also one of the toughest places to play at with a boisterous fan base with their cow bells,” Kiss added.
“We’ve shown we are robust and resilient and that our skills have come through to solve problems at the right time.
“We work at being stronger each week. This is another challenge to aim up to in Hamilton against a team that has shown they are right on top of their game.”
REDS (1-15): Alex Hodgman, Matt Faessler, Jeffery Toomana-Allen, Josh Canham, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Joe Brial, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott (c), Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Filipo Daugunu, Hunter Paisami, Dre Pakeho, Lachie Anderson, Heremaia Murray
Replacements: Richie Asaita, Sef Fa'agase, Zane Nonggorr, Ryan Smith, John Bryant, Kalani Thomas, Tom Lynagh, Jock Campbell
