NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar has named Taniela Tupou on the bench for Saturday’s clash with Moana Pasifika.
It’s one of several changes to the team that were heavily defeated by the Hurricanes, including the return of skipper Hugh Sinclair and Tane Edmed dropping off the bench.
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Tupou has started the first six games of the season for the Waratahs, however, McKellar has opted for Daniel Botha to start in Auckland.
“I had a good conversation with Taniela about this selection,” McKellar said.
“He understands that he has a massive role to play when he comes on, bringing energy, power, and leadership in that crucial final period.
“His ability to change the momentum of a game is a real asset for us.”
Botha forms an all-Sydney Uni front-row alongside good mate Angus Bell and new recruit Ethan Dobbins, who swaps with Julian Heaven.
“We believe Dan will provide a solid set-piece foundation and physicality to start the game,” McKellar said.
“Then we have the luxury of bringing in a player like Taniela Tupou in the final 30 minutes to make a big impact.”
Sinclair takes the captaincy back from Joey Walton after missing the defeat due to illness.
Walton reverts to the bench alongside Jack Bowen, with Lalakai Foketi and Henry O’Donnell forming a new-look midfield partnership.
Bowen comes in for Edmed, with the one-time Wallaby finishing the game at flyhalf after Lawson Creighton’s HIA, who has been cleared to play.
“Jack has worked hard, played well in the ‘A’ game against the Brumbies Runners, and deserves his crack at Super Rugby level,” McKellar believes.
Andrew Kellaway (rest) and Triston Reilly (shoulder) come onto the wing, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii returning to fullback after initially being named at centre on his return last week.
“Tristan would have played last week if not for injury. He has been superb defensively and brings real energy on the wing,” McKellar notes.
“Joseph is a natural athlete with great vision and a strong defensive game,” he said.
“He can provide the stability and counter-attacking ability we need at fullback, particularly against a team that likes to play expansively like Moana Pasifika.”
It comes with Max Jorgensen (ankle) and Darby Lancaster (concussion) ruled out after a physical defeat last week.
WARATAHS (1-15): Angus Bell, Ethan Dobbins, Daniel Botha, Hugh Sinclair (c), Ben Grant, Rob Leota, Charlie Gamble, Langi Gleeson, Teddy Wilson, Lawson Creighton, Triston Reilly, Lalakai Foketi, Henry O'Donnell, Andrew Kellaway, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
Replacements: Julian Heaven, Isaac Kailea, Taniela Tupou, Felix Kalapu, Jamie Adamson, Jack Grant, Jack Bowen, Joey Walton
