NSW Waratahs have promoted South African powerhouse Jacques Potgieter to the starting side for Saturday night’s Super Rugby derby against the Queensland Reds at ANZ Stadium.
Potgieter comes in at lock to partner Kane Douglas, meaning 21-year-old giant Will Skelton drops back to the bench.
Waratahs coach Michael Cheika said he had a “gut feel” that Potgieter’s experience could benefit his pack in what promises to be a willing forward battle against one of the Australian Conference heavyweights.
Skelton made a strong start in last week’s win against the Western Force, and Cheika said the future Wallaby wasn’t being dropped for form reasons.
“Jacques came on and had a really good impact on the weekend and I’d like Willie to learn how to do the same,” Cheika said.
“Jacques is still settling into how we’re going to play. He’s playing a few more phases than he’s had to play before (in South Africa).
“He was blowing a fair bit after last week’s game so see if we can get some more oxygen in his lungs before the weekend.
“He’ll go as hard as he can. Carry good ball, make good tackles and hit good rucks.”
After running in six tries to two in the bonus point thumping of the Force, Cheika has stuck with an unchanged backline and he’s also retained Paddy Ryan at prop over experienced international Sekope Kepu.
Captain Dave Dennis didn’t train on Tuesday and is in some doubt for the Reds clash with a minor knee problem.
Cheika has named an extended bench which he will cut down on Thursday.
Waratahs: Israel Folau, Alofa Alofa, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Kurtley Beale, Peter Betham, Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps, Wycliff Palu, Michael Hooper, Dave Dennis, Kane Douglas, Jacques Potgieter, Paddy Ryan, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Reserves: Tola Latu, Jeremy Tilse, Sekope Kepu, Will Skelton, Stephen Hoiles, Brendan McKibbin, Rob Horne, Matt Carraro, Pat McCutcheon, Jonno Lance