Carter returns to lead Brumbies

The Brumbies have made three changes to the starting XV that defeated the Reds last week as they prepare for the challenge of the Rebels in Melbourne on Saturday.

Sam Carter returns to skipper the side against the Rebels, renewing his second row partnership with Wallabies international team-mate Rory Arnold, whilst there are starts for centre Andrew Smith and number eight Jarrad Butler in place of the injured Kyle Godwin and Jordan Smiler.

Head xoach Stephen Larkham reverts to a 6-2 split on the bench which sees Jordan Jackson-Hope named as cover for the backs alongside a possible first Brumbies cap for former Australian Sevens star and ACT local Tom Cusack.

Blake Enever is included amongst the forward replacements in what is a strong bench as the Brumbies aim to extend their winning streak against Australian Conference opposition to eleven.

The hand injury suffered by Godwin in the 43-10 hammering of the Reds means a first start of the season for Smith in the inside-centre role, linking up with Tevita Kuridrani.

Tom Banks retains his position on the left wing with Henry Speight and last week’s man of the match Aidan Toua completing the back three.

Brumbies: 15 Aidan Toua, 14 Henry Speight, 13 Tevita Kuridrani, 12 Andrew Smith, 11 Tom Banks, 10 Wharenui Hawera, 9 Joe Powell, 8 Jarrad Butler, 7 Chris Alcock, 6 Scott Fardy, 5 Sam Carter (c), 4 Rory Arnold, 3 Allan Alaalatoa, 2 Robbie Abel, 1 Scott Sio
Replacements: 16 Saia Fainga’a, 17 Nic Mayhew, 18 Ben Alexander, 19 Blake Enever, 20 Tom Staniforth, 21 Tom Cusack, 22 De Wet Roos, 23 Jordan Jackson-Hope

Date: Saturday, April 15
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 19:45 local (09:45 GMT)
Referee: Glen Jackson
Assistant Referees: Brendon Pickerill, Rohan Hoffmann
TMO: George Ayoub