Wallabies skipper’s return boosts Reds
RUGBY UNION: The addition of Wallabies captain Stephen Moore is the only change to the Queensland Reds starting line-up for the hugely important clash with the Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium tomorrow night.
Moore (pictured) replaces Alex Mafi, who has moved to the bench, with others returning from injury also among the reserves.
Lock Izack Rodda returns from a shoulder injury to take the place of Kane Douglas, while No.8 Leroy Houston gets his first opportunity in the Reds jersey in 2017, after finally recovering from an eye injury.
Campbell Magnay is also set for his first game of the year after completing a lengthy rehabilitation from shoulder and hip injuries. Magnay replaces winger Chris Kuridrani.
Coach Nick Stiles said it was good to see a number of players returning to the squad following last week’s bye and said no player would need much motivation for tomorrow’s clash.
“No one needs reminding of the importance of this match for both sides,” he said. “This is the only Queensland versus New South Wales fixture in the 2017 calendar and it has a lot of implications for the Australian conference.
“I know the team, the organisation and our fans are really looking forward to it.
“It’s also great to be able to bring a few players back from injury this week. Everyone wants a chance to pull the colours on against New South Wales.
“Those guys have worked really hard to ensure they’re fit to play and are really excited to take the field on Saturday.”