Wing for Lomani
REBELS coach Dave Wessels has made an intriguing selection by picking Fiji halfback Frank Lomani to start on the right wing against the Reds tomorrow.
Lomani takes the place of the injured Lachie Anderson while discarded Wallabies hooker Jordan Uelese replaces James Hanson in the only other change to the starting side.
Australian sevens stars Lewis Holland and Jeral Skelton are both in line to make their Rebels debuts from the bench.
“I’m really pleased for both Lewis and Jeral who were going really well until they got injured, so it’s really exciting to have them both back on deck,” Wessels said.
“What you always get out of the sevens is guys that work really hard and players that are dynamic athletes, so we’re looking forward to seeing how they go.
“This week is a good opportunity for us to build momentum. We feel we’ve gotten better with every game and this week will be a great opportunity to test ourselves against a team playing really well and with a lot of confidence.”
Meanwhile, Reds coach Brad Thorn has made four changes to his starting side, with Suliasi Vunivalu’s injury triggering a backline reshuffle.
Hamish Stewart, who had been dropped for disciplinary reasons, returns at inside centre, with Hunter Paisami shifting out a spot to wear No.13.
Jordan Petaia also moves out to the right wing, with Bryce Hegarty starting at fullback and Jock Campbell moving to the left wing. Harry Wilson returns at No.8 for new Wallabies squad member Seru Eru while Feao Fotuaika is back after suspension and starts ahead of Dane Zander at looshead prop.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge ahead on Saturday night,” Thorn said.
“It’s great to have Feao back... Bryce has earned the right to start this week... He’ll do his job at fullback for us with Jock and Jordan shifting to the wing.
“Hamish will bring up his 50th cap for Queensland. He’s worked hard in our program and is a valued member of this group. It’s a special achievement for Hamish and we congratulate him on reaching this milestone.”
REBELS (15-1): Tom Pincus, Frank Lomani, Stacey Ili, Reece Hodge, Marika Koroibete, Matt To’omua, Joe Powell, Michael Wells, Richard Hardwick, Josh Kemeny, Trevor Hosea, Steve Cummins, Pone Faamausili, Jordan Uelese, Cabous Eloff
Reserves: James Hanson, Matt Gibbon, Albert Anae, Tom Nowlan,
Rob Leota, James Tuttle, Lewis Holland, Jeral Skelton
REDS (15-1): Bryce Hegarty, Jordan Petaia, Hunter Paisami, Hamish Stewart, Jock Campbell, James O’Connor (c), Tate McDermott, Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight, Angus Scott-Young, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Ryan Smith, Taniela Tupou, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Feao Fotuaika
Reserves: Alex Mafi, Richie Asiata, Zane Nonggorr, Angus Blyth, Seru Uru, Kalani Thomas, Josh Flook, Filipo Daugunu