Friday’s rugby news has Israel Folau moving to centre, Rob Simmons ruled out, Brad Thorn backs the Reds new signing and Ritchie McCaw given New Zealand’s highest honour.
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Folau to Centre
The Waratahs have made several big changes for their match against the Brumbies this weekend including moving Israel Folau to outside centre.
Prop Tom Robertson, fullback Andrew Kellaway and Will Skelton have all been promoted to the starting team whilst Angus Ta’avao and Dave Dennis have been dropped to the bench.
“Getting him [Folau] the ball a little bit more will be a good opportunity to unleash,” said assistant coach Nathan Grey.
“He sits down a lot of defenders because you’ve got to mark him so that might open up opportunities elsewhere as well.”
Meanwhile the Brumbies will start Jordan Smiler and Jarrad Butler in place of David Pocock and Ita Vaea.
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Simmons Out
Queensland Reds second rower Rob Simmons has been ruled out of this weekend’s clash against the Bulls due to a shoulder injury.
Simmons will be replaced in the starting team by Ben Matwijow.
“It’s disappointing not to have the experience of Rob there this weekend, but we thought it was best to give his shoulder another week to heal,” said Reds co-coach Nick Stiles.
“Ben has been making a solid impact off the bench and we know he can do a job for us on Saturday night (local time).
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Thorn Backs Timu
Newly appointed assistant coach of the Queensland Reds Brad Thorn has backed new Reds signing of Caleb Timu.
Timu, 22, played for the Australian Schoolboys before being signed to the Brisbane Broncos straight out of High school.
Thorn believes the young forward, who can play 6 or 8, has great potential.
“I don’t mind guys with league backgrounds,” said Thorn.
“He’s an 80-minute league player, plays tough footy. We see him as a really good prospect.”
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McCaw Given Highest Honour
Former All Blacks captain Ritchie McCaw has officially been appointed as a member of the Order of New Zealand.
Only 20 living New Zealanders have received the honour and McCaw, 35, is the youngest.
“When you play rugby, you don’t expect to have something like this bestowed upon you,” McCaw said.
“I guess it’s recognition of the hard work you put in to try and represent your country as best you can.”
