Waratahs with same side for Rebels

The NSW Waratahs have named the same starting team for their clash with the Rebels as the one that was upset by Western Force in round one.

The chastened NSW Waratahs will get the chance to atone for their embarrassing opening round loss with coach Michael Cheika retaining the same starting team.

The defending Super Rugby champions were well off the pace when beaten 25-13 at home by the Western Force on Saturday.

But, having blamed himself, Cheika on Tuesday named the same side to start in Friday night's clash with the Melbourne Rebels at AAMI Park.

If there are any changes they will come from the reserves with Cheika adding flanker Pat McCutcheon and winger Peter Betham to an extended bench.

No.8 Wycliff Palu was named to start despite Cheika revealing he has been troubled by a knee issue since the weekend loss.

The match will mark a major milestone for Wallaby prop Benn Robinson who will equal former skipper Phil Waugh as the most capped NSW player in history in his 136th game for the Waratahs.

NSW Waratahs: Israel Folau, Taqele Naiyaravaro, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Kurtley Beale, Rob Horne, Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps, Wycliff Palu, Michael Hooper, Jaques Potgieter, Will Skelton, David Dennis (capt), Sekope Kepu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Res: Tolu Latu, Jeremy Tilse, Paddy Ryan, Sam Lousi, Mitchell Chapman, Stephen Hoiles, Brendan McKibbin, Matt Carraro, Pat McCutcheon, Peter Betham (two to be omitted).


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Source: AAP


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