The Brumbies are set to hand former Sydney University player Leo Afeaki his debut against the Queensland Reds on Saturday.
Former Universitty star ste to make Brumbies debut against Queensland.
The Brumbies are set to hand former Sydney University player Leo Afeaki his debut against the Queensland Reds on Saturday.
The 20-year-old was recruited into the Brumbies academy at the end of 2007 and now steps up to replace the injured Anthony Faingaa, who will miss close to six weeks of action with a knee injury.
Afeaki is hoping to grasp the opportunity with both hands and is understandably excited with his first taste of Super 14 rugby looming.
He said: "When I joined the Brumbies I was not expecting to play Super 14 so quickly.
"But I have been here for three months now, I am comfortable with the guys and how we play. This is a great challenge and a good opportunity for me to play at this level."
Phibbs
Scrum-half Patrick Phibbs will accompany Afeaki in the run on side after Josh Holmes was relegated to the bench.
He said: "It is always preferable to start rather than come off the bench. I am excited about running on against the Reds in front of a big crowd on Saturday night."
"Now I have been given this opportunity, it is up to me to provide that good service for the guys outside me, check all the boxes and look to play some footy that warrants a regular selection in the starting side."
In other Brumbies selection news, Alister Campbell will be replaced by Adam Wallace-Harrison, as the former recuperates from an injured knee. Huia Edmonds makes way for Saia Faingaa in the starting XV.
The Reds have not made a decision on the availability of scrum-half Sam Cordingley as he continues to press his case for selection after straining his groin.
Cordingley was initially expected to miss two to four weeks but the Reds are giving him every chance to prove his fitness for the clash with the Brumbies.
In the event that the 31-year-old won't be able to take his place in the side, Will Genia will take his place and Ben Lucas will replace Genia on the starting bench.
Other changes to the Reds line up include back-rower Leroy Houston getting a promotion to the run on side, while AJ Gilbert will take Houston's spot on the bench.
Reds coach Phil Mooney said: "AJ has been in terrific form with the Reds second XV in their two unbeaten matches this season and deserves a shot at the Brumbies."
Berrick Barnes will take his spot in the team after a cold saw a premature end to his match last round against the Hurricanes.
