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The Queensland Reds finish off the Super Rugby Pacfic weekend when they host the dangerous Fijian Drua on Sunday afternoon. Join The Roar for live scores and rolling coverage from 4pm (AEDT).
The Reds have made three changes to their starting XV to face the Drua in their first game at Suncorp this season.
James O’Connor is back in the No.10 jersey after a successful comeback from injury via the bench behind Tom Lynagh, while Taj Annan will make his first Super Rugby start at inside centre.
Jock Campbell is named at fullback, with Jordie Petaia going to the wing and Suli Vunivalu to the bench.
Annan will pair with Josh Flook in the centres after Hunter Paisami was ruled out with concussion.
Co-captain Tate McDermott and James O’Connor will reprise their partnership in the halves, while fellow skipper Liam Wright, Fraser McReight and Harry Wilson make for a settled backrow trio.
Dane Zander, Matt Faessler and Zane Nonggorr start in the front row.
Fiji coach Mick Byrne has stuck with the 23 who triumphed against the Crusaders last week, although has changed up his starting XV.
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Meli Tuni starts again at loosehead prop, while Samuela Tawake starts at tighthead. Tevita Ikanivere completes the front row at hooker.
Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta is back in the starting 15, but this time at lock to partner Isoa Nasilasila. Last week’s Player of the Match Joseva Tamani retains his spot at blindside flanker opposite the impressive Kitione Salawa. Club captain Meli Derenalagi starts for the first time this season at Number 8.
The halves are retained with Frank Lomani at halfback and Teti Tela at flyhalf.
It’s the same back three from last week, with Eroni Sau and Selestino Ravutaumada on the left and right wings, with Ilaisa Droasese at fullback.
Game information
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Kick-off: 4pm (AEDT) Streaming:Stan Sport Betting: Reds $1.18, Drua $4.75 – odds via PlayUp
Teams
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Reds (1-15): Dane Zander, Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr, Ryan Smith, Seru Uru, Liam Wright, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott, James O’Connor, Filipo Daugunu, Taj Annan, Josh Flook, Jordan Petaia, Jock Campbell.
Replacements: Richie Asiata, Sef Fa’agase, Peni Ravai, Jake Upfield, Connor Vest, Kalani Thomas, Tom Lynagh, Suliasi Vunivalu.
