NSW Waratahs have suffered a blow on the eve of their Super Rugby clash with the Rebels in Melbourne, losing Wallabies No.8 Wycliff Palu to a knee injury.

Coach Michael Cheika said earlier in the week that Palu had been troubled by the knee in the aftermath of Sunday’s home loss to Western Force.

He originally named an unchanged side to meet a Rebels team coming off an opening round away win over the Crusaders.

Veteran back rower Stephen Hoiles, who was on the bench for last weekend’s game, moves into the starting lineup.

Hoiles started last year’s final against the Crusaders at blindside flanker.

The Waratahs bench for Friday’s game has yet to be finalised.