Western Force head coach Simon Cron has made four changes to his starting XV to take on the Highlanders at HBF Park on Saturday night.
Captain Michael Wells returns after three weeks on the sideline with an Achilles tendon strain. His leadership and direction on the pitch are vital in the Force's resurgence at home. Pairing up with Anstee and Callan in the back-row, the captains control and influence will be welcomed against a strong Highlander pack.
Bryce Hegarty is fit and back in the mix, named at fly-half for his third match in front of the Sea of Blue. Consistent back pain ruled him out for the last three matches, so with the injection of his experience against a powerful Highlanders outfit, the team is lifted heading into Saturdays match.
The back three continue to build their partnership, with the inclusion of Toni Pulu, back from a knee injury, pace is not lost on the right wing. After a try-of-the-year contender in last week's match against the Waratahs, Zack Kibirige is unavailable for selection, ruled out with hamstring soreness.
The front row remains unchanged, with Tom Horton coming into his own, knocking up solid performances. Felix Kalapu returns to the starting XV at lock, linking up with ever-consistent Jeremy Williams.
The Force has conceded just 85 turnovers in the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season, fewer than any other team in the competition and 18 fewer than the Highlanders (103). The team will be looking to hold this form in front of the home crowd this Saturday.
- Tom Robertson
- Tom Horton
- Santiago Medrano
- Felix Kalapu Jr.
- Jeremy Williams
- Tim Anstee
- Ollie Callan
- Michael Wells
- Issak Fines-Leleiwasa
- Bryce Hegarty
- Manasa Mataele
- Hamish Stewart
- Sam Spink
- Toni Pulu
- Chase Tiatia
- Feleti Kaitu’u
- Angus Wagner
- Siosifa Amone
- Ryan McCauley
- Rahboni Vosayaco
- Ian Prior
- Bayley Kuenzle
- George Poolman
GAME DETAILS Super W: Force vs Brumbies
Saturday, April 22 | HBF PARK | 3:05 PM AWST
Super Rugby Pacific: Force vs Highlanders
Saturday, April 22 | HBF PARK | 5:35 PM AWST
