Foley returns for Waratahs

Waratahs head coach Daryl Gibson has made several changes to his starting line-up for Friday’s clash with the Rebels in Melbourne, as the team try to win back the Weary Dunlop Shield.

The Sydneysiders welcome back Wallaby fly-half Bernard Foley who has been sidelined for the first four weeks while going through the return to play concussion protocols after a head knock during the trial game against the Highlanders.

After earning his first Waratahs cap in round three, Jake Gordon’s good form will see him start at scrum-half, with Jed Holloway and Ned Hanigan also set to start after returning from injury in round four.

“For Jake it is an opportunity as a promising young player and he deserves a chance”, said Gibson.

“Jake’s got an eye for a gap, he’s a strong runner, he plays a lot on instincts and he is a good kicker of the ball.

“Ned came on and made a nice impact (last week). He has always been past his age group, (and at number) 6 or 4 he is a very versatile player. I like what he brings to the team… He has got immense ability and it is a good opportunity on a bigger stage to really cement himself.”

Further changes to positions will see Israel Folau back in the number 15 jersey, with Andrew Kellaway on the wing and David Horwitz starting in the centres alongside veteran Rob Horne.

Waratahs: 15 Israel Folau, 14 Reece Robinson, 13 Rob Horne, 12 David Horwitz, 11 Andrew Kellaway, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Jake Gordon, 8 Jed Holloway, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Ned Hanigan, 5 Will Skelton, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Sekope Kepu, 2 Tolu Latu, 1 Tom Robertson
Replacements: 16 Damien Fitzpatrick, 17 Paddy Ryan, 18 David Lolohea, 19 David McDuling, 20 Michael Wells, 21 Nick Phipps, 22 Cam Clark, 23 Taqele Naiyaravoro

Date: Friday, March 24
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 21:45 local (08:45 GMT)
Referee: Brendon Pickerill (New Zealand)
Assistant Referees: Glen Jackson (New Zealand), Jordan Way (Australia)
TMO: George Ayoub (Australia)