Super Rugby AUS continues into Round Two this weekend, with a host of stars returning to action across the fixtures.
The Western Force will unveil flyhalf James O’Connor, who is named on the extended bench to face the ACT Brumbies in Butler on Sunday. Wallabies Tom Robertson and Nick Champion de Crespigny also feature in the starting line-up.
Reds and Waratahs head to Roma
Before that, the Queensland Reds and NSW Waratahs travel to Roma for the ‘Santos Festival of Rugby’ on Saturday. The Reds have drafted in former NRL star David Fusitu’a and former Wallaby Sefa Naivalu for the clash.
Fusitu’a partners Josh Takai in the centres, reuniting their brothers’ combination after a long-term injury to Josh Flook. Naivalu pulls on the maroon jersey for the first time since 2019.
Tom Lynagh remains at flyhalf as he continues his return from injury, with Matt Faessler captaining the side. Former New Zealand Warriors flyer Fusitu’a has made the most of his opportunity in the backline alongside Takai.
The Waratahs have called Australia U20 star Isaac Fonua and Tom Girle into their pack. Fonua replaces the injured Pete Samu, while Girle comes in for Justice Taumoepeau, who is on Australia U18 duties. Wallaby Luke Reimer makes his club debut from the bench, alongside Australia U20 stars Charlie Bird and Tyler Maybery.
Force welcome back O’Connor and Robertson
The Force have named a settled line-up following their thrilling win over the Queensland Reds. Kurtley Beale takes the starting spot vacated when Harry McLaughlin-Phillips was called into the Wallabies squad, and he will line up in the side against the Brumbies.
Robertson returns from injury at loosehead prop, while one-time Wallabies skipper Nick Champion de Crespigny is named at blindside flanker. O’Connor will make his return to the Force from the bench.
Brumbies recall Frost
For the Brumbies, Nick Frost is a major inclusion after missing last week’s defeat to the NSW Waratahs. He starts at second row. It is one of two changes to the starting side, with Tavita Loughland coming into the back row to replace TJ Talaileva.
Kadin Pritchard has been cleared from injury after his late withdrawal last week and is selected on the bench.