Prop Paddy Ryan will make his fourth start this season as the NSW Waratahs try to keep their Super Rugby finals hopes flickering with victory over the Brumbies in Saturday night’s Australian conference derby in Sydney.

Ryan’s inclusion at tighthead prop in place of Sekope Kepu is one of two changes to the side that last week edged the Stormers 21-15, with Wallabies winger Drew Mitchell also elevated from the bench to replace Peter Betham.

Kepu had scans for a calf injury this week and will start on the bench.

Coach Michael Cheika has retained Bernard Foley at five-eighth, with Wallabies star Berrick Barnes remaining on the bench despite playing a starring role in the Waratahs’ vital win over the Stormers.

Waratahs: Israel Folau, Cam Crawford, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Rob Horne, Drew Mitchell, Bernard Foley, Brendan McKibbin, Wycliff Palu, Michael Hooper, Dave Dennis (capt), Kane Douglas, Sitaleki Timani, Paddy Ryan, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Reserves: John Ulugia, Sekope Kepu, Will Skelton, Mitchell Chapman, Matt Lucas, Berrick Barnes, Peter Betham.