Western Force have revamped their back-row and named departing stalwart Nathan Sharpe as captain for Saturday’s Super Rugby match with the Blues in Auckland.
Wallabies lock Sharpe will be playing his second last game for the Perth-based franchise.
Injuries to regular captain David Pocock (groin) and fellow Wallaby Matt Hodgson (ankle) mean Angus Cottrell will start at openside flanker and Lachlan McCaffrey at No.8.
“Locky McCaffery earns his chance and he brought something different off the bench for us last week,” Force defence and skills coach Phil Blake said.
“From where he’s come from this season to where he is now, it’s been a great education and this is a good opportunity for him.
“The same goes for Gus. He’s a good young player and won’t let us down. He’s got a high work rate and lots of energy and that will be welcome on Saturday.”
In the backs, veteran Brett Sheehan returns at halfback in place of Josh Holmes and centre Winston Stanley is recalled for the match against his former team.
“It’s a big challenge for the team and for me personally,” said Stanley, who played six times for the Blues between 2009 and 2011.
“There’s been a bit of banter with the Blues guys but I’m trying to keep it pretty low key.
“I’d rather go out there and let my performance do the talking.”
On the bench, forwards Anare Kolivau, Ruan Smith and Ollie Atkins could all make Super Rugby debuts, while Ben Whittaker replaces Elvis Taione as reserve hooker.
The Force enter the second-last round in 13th spot, one place and four points above the Blues, with each team running last in their respective national conferences.
Force: Alfie Mafi, Nick Cummins, Will Tupou, Winston Stanley, Napolioni Nalaga, Ben Seymour, Brett Sheehan, Lachlan McCaffery, Angus Cottrell, Richard Brown, Nathan Sharpe (capt), Toby Lynn, Salesi Manu, Nathan Charles, Pek Cowan. Res: Ben Whittaker, Ruan Smith, Ollie Atkins, Anare Koliavu, Josh Holmes, Kyle Godwin, Patrick Dellit.