Karmichael Hunt returns via bench for Waratahs

Waratahs head coach Rob Penney has named an unchanged starting line-up to face the Force in their Super Rugby AU clash in Sydney on Saturday.

Wallabies utility back Karmichael Hunt will make his return from injury via the replacements bench, with Joey Walton and Alex Newsome continuing their partnership in midfield.

Jack Maddocks will continue at full-back after a strong performance in last weekend’s opening round defeat to the Reds, again flanked by James Ramm and Mark Nawaqanitawase.

Last weekend’s debutants Will Harris, Tom Horton and Tiaan Tauakipulu all remain in the matchday squad.

Waratahs: 15 Jack Maddocks, 14 James Ramm, 13 Alex Newsome, 12 Joey Walton, 11 Mark Nawaqanitawase, 10 Will Harrison, 9 Mitch Short, 8 Will Harris, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Lachie Swinton, 5 Rob Simmons (c), 4 Ned Hanigan, 3 Harry Johnson-Holmes, 2 Robbie Abel, 1 Angus Bell
Replacements: 16 Tom Horton, 17 Tetera Faulkner, 18 Tiaan Tauakipulu, 19 Tom Staniforth, 20 Jack Dempsey, 21 Michael McDonald, 22 Ben Donaldson/Tepai Moeroa, 22 Karmichael Hunt

Date: Saturday, July 11
Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground
Kick-off: 19:15 (10:15 BST, 09:15 GMT)
Referee: Angus Gardner
Assistant referees: Amy Perrett, James Quinn
TMO: James Leckie