International commitments and injuries have forced 10 changes to the Melbourne Rebels squad for their Super Rugby clash with the Brumbies in Canberra on Friday night.

Former Wallaby halfback Luke Burgess is set to play his first game for Melbourne after being named on the bench for the clash with the Australian conference leaders.

Nic Stirzaker and Bryce Hegarty are the starting halves with Wallabies Nick Phipps and James O’Connor preparing to face the British and Irish Lions.

Gareth Delve returns to the starting team at No.8 and captain, with Scott Higginbotham sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Higginbotham would have otherwise missed the game with the Wallabies.

With Japanese hooker Shota Horie absent on international duties, Pat Leafa wins his first call-up to the bench.

Lock/back-rower James King will also make his Rebels debut from the bench alongside Tim Davidson.

Rebels head coach Damien Hill said he was excited to give some new players an opportunity.

“The team has come a long way over the last eight games and, with 10 changes this week, we are looking forward to testing our squad depth against a strong Brumbies outfit.”

Rebels: Jason Woodward, Tom English, Mitch Inman, Rory Sidey, Lachlan Mitchell, Bryce Hegarty, Nic Stirzaker, Gareth Delve (capt), Scott Fuglistaller, Jordy Reid, Luke Jones, Cadeyrn Neville, Laurie Weeks, Ged Robinson, Nic Henderson. Res: Pat Leafa, Paul Alo-Emile, James King, Tim Davidson, Luke Burgess, James Hilgendorf, Kimami Sitauti.