Set to make their NSW Waratahs debut are front rowers JP Sauni and Cody Walker. The tournament will also see the return of winger Cam Clark, who last played in the 2017 Shute Shield final before undergoing shoulder surgery in the off-season.
NSW Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson said the Tens was another opportunity for the players to perform and compete for positions.
“This tournament represents a different challenge for us in so far as it’s not quite Sevens but it’s also not Fifteens as we know it. Last year was a learning experience for all teams because I don’t think we quite knew what to expect. What we learnt though was that Tens is still structured and that set piece is still important, like Fifteens,” Gibson said.
“The squad for Brisbane is another opportunity for us to introduce the younger players to the fast-paced and high intensity rugby at an international level. While the type of game will be slightly different for these players, the fundamentals will still be the same,” Gibson added.
The NSW Waratahs kick off the tournament against French side Pau and the Highlanders on day one on Friday 9 February, and complete their Pool B matches against inaugural champions the Chiefs on Saturday.
Next week, the NSW Waratahs return to Brookvale Oval for their final pre-season trial at Brookvale Oval on Thursday, 15 February. To secure your seats, head to www.nswwaratahs.com.au/tickets
NSW Waratahs squad: Cam Clark, Damien Fitzpatrick (captain), Lalakai Foketi, Jake Gordon, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Maclean Jones, Tolu Latu, Mack Mason, Ryan McCauley, Kelly Meafua, Will Miller, Drew Mitchell, Taqele Naiyaravoro, Alex Newsome, Rory O’Connor, Curtis Rona, JP Sauni, Mitch Short, Irae Simone, Lachlan Swinton, Cody Walker
Note: Randwick halfback Short and Warringah prop O’Connor have been training with the team as cover in their specialist positions.
*Update: Kurtley Beale has been ruled out of the Brisbane Global Rugby Tens competition.
Run Sheet:
Friday, 9 February
vs Pau (FRA), 3:15pm
vs Highlanders, 7:34pm
Saturday, 10 February
vs Chiefs, 2:35pm
*finals begin from 5:00pm*
