Wallabies backrow Rob Valetini has been named in the Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies starting lineup to take on the NSW Waratahs at the Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday (kick-off 7.35pm).
Valetini, who missed the first five rounds of this year’s Smartech Super Rugby Pacific campaign due to a hamstring tear, is one of four changes to the team following last Friday’s 38-21 win over the Fijian Drua at GIO Stadium. He is set to take to the field at number eight, with Cadeyrn Neville (lock), Luke Reimer (openside flanker) and Ollie Sapsford (inside centre) the other changes in personnel.
Head coach Stephen Larkham welcomed back Valetini and is excited for his team to face their oldest rivals, following a 36-36 draw in a pre-season Trial fixture in Bowral.
“It’s a huge boost to have Rob back in our side. He’s a world-class back row who possesses so many qualities that help our team,” Larkham said.
“We’re looking forward to taking on the Waratahs in their own backyard. They’ve made a strong start to the season, despite their slip-up against the Reds last weekend.
“Everyone at the club wants to play in these sorts of matches against our biggest rivals."
The Waratahs haven’t beaten the Brumbies in 13 attempts since 2018, including eight straight matches at home. The Brumbies currently sit one point ahead of their opposition this weekend in fourth place in the Super Rugby Pacific standings.
In terms of cover on the bench, backs Jack Debreczeni and Austin Anderson are added to the lineup.
2025 Smartech Super Rugby Pacific Round 6 – Saturday 22nd March (7.35pm AEDT)
NSW Waratahs vs Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies
Allianz Stadium, Sydney
Starting XV
- James Slipper
- Billy Pollard
- Allan Alaalatoa (c)
- Nick Frost
- Cadeyrn Neville
- Tom Hooper
- Luke Reimer
- Rob Valetini
- Ryan Lonergan (vc)
- Noah Lolesio
- Corey Toole
- Ollie Sapsford
- Len Ikitau
- Andy Muirhead
- Tom Wright
Finishers:
- Lachlan Lonergan
- Blake Schoupp
- Feao Fotuiaka
- Lachie Shaw
- Rory Scott
- Harrison Goddard
- Jack Debreczeni
- Austin Anderson
Injury list:
Short-term:
- David Feliuai – return to play protocol, concussion, expected back Round 7
- Tuaina Taii Tualima – dengue, timeline TBC
Long-term:
- Charlie Cale – lower back injury, timeline TBC
- Ben O’Donnell – hamstring operation
- Tevita Alatini, Harry Vella – ACL reconstruction rehabilitation
