Brumbies v Waratahs: Teams

Brumbies coach Tony Rea has made several changes to his side that will face the Waratahs in Canberra.

Christian Lealiifano a notable starter in the centres while Andrew Smith starts outside him, with Robbie Coleman being rested on the bench and Pat McCabe ruled out through a hamstring injury.

Adam Ashley-Cooper returns to full-back while in the pack Mitchell Chapman, who suffered facial fractures against the Crusaders, has been replaced by Colby Faingaa.

Julian Salvi returns from the bench to openside flanker with his bench spot being filled by Michael Hooper.

Huia Edmonds has been brought into the starting side at hooker to replace Stephen Moore, who suffered and ankle injury against the Crusaders.

Edmonds' bench spot has been filled by Anthony Hegarty in what will be his debut Super Rugby match.

Waratahs coach Chris Hickey will be without Test prop Benn Robinson after he suffered a cracked rib during the defeat to the Cheetahs.

Robinson, who is likely to miss the next three matches, will be replaced by Sekope Kepu at loosehead.

There was some good news though for the Waratahs - who have lost their last two matches after such a promising start to the tournament - with inspirational hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau and captain Phil Waugh set to be available.

''There will be serious question marks for the team which loses,'' Hickey told rugbyheaven. ''I know it's only week six of a 20-week tournament, but this will be a pivotal game for both teams.

''It's an important game for the Brumbies as well because they have their own issues. They have got a lot to prove, while for us it is a real chance to get our campaign back on track.''

Brumbies: 15 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 14 Henry Speight, 13 Andrew Smith, 12 Christian Lealiifano, 11 Francis Fainifo, 10 Matt Giteau, 9 Josh Valentine, 8 Ita Vaea, 7 Julian Salvi, 6 Colby Faingaa, 5 Mark Chisholm, 4 Ben Hand, 3 Dan Palmer, 2 Huia Edmonds, 1 Ben Alexander.
Replacements: 16 Anthony Hegarty, 17 Salesi Ma'afu, 18 Peter Kimlin, 19 Michael Hooper, 20 Pat Phibbs, 21 Matt Toomua, 22 Robbie Coleman.

Waratahs:tbc