Anna 
ACT Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham is facing selection challenges following the team’s historic win over the Fijian Drua in Suva. With a home Australian derby against the Western Force approaching, Larkham has made several changes to the matchday squad.
Six Wallabies return to the starting lineup for the Super Rugby Pacific clash at GIO Stadium. In a notable decision, fly-half Declan Meredith has been named to start for the first time at Super Rugby level, replacing Noah Lolesio, who has been dropped from the matchday 23. Jack Debreczeni will serve as cover off the bench.
The returning Wallabies – James Slipper, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Charlie Cale, Len Ikitau, and Tom Wright – were all rested for last week’s 36-32 victory over the Drua. This win saw the Brumbies become the first Australian team to win a Super Rugby match in Fiji.
“The selection for this weekend has been a bit of a headache after the Drua result. Everyone who stepped in for Fiji delivered,” Larkham said. “It’s great to have these players back, bringing valuable experience and expertise.”
Larkham also highlighted the challenge posed by the Western Force, who started the season with a win and gave the Brumbies a tough test in a pre-season match in Canberra.
In the forwards, Slipper joins Billy Pollard and captain Alaalatoa in a strong front row, while Frost and Tom Hooper complete the tight five. Rory Scott and Cale join Luke Reimer, who scored two tries against the Drua, in the loose forwards.
In the backline, Ryan Lonergan partners Meredith in the halves, while Ollie Sapsford teams up with Ikitau in the midfield. The outside backs include Corey Toole, Andy Muirhead, and Tom Wright.
The match will kick off at 7:35 pm AEDT on Saturday evening at GIO Stadium.
Related topics：