Melbourne Rebels announce an almost full roster for the Drua trial.
As the eighth player in a forward pack that also features Wallabies Taniela Tupou, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, and Josh Kemeny, Rob Leota, a backrower for the Wallabies, will captain the team.
Following his bench debut against the Waratahs at the beginning of the month, Tupou will be making his first start in Rebels colors. After an incredible 2023 season, Carter Gordon will start at flyhalf. Matt Proctor and Filipo Daugunu, recent additions, will start in the backfield while Andrew Kellaway moves back to fullback.
During the hit-out, talented players such as Wallabies Jordan Uelese, Sam Talakai, and Sevens player Darby Lancaster are expected to come off the bench.
Leota stated, “I think everyone is eager to get started, and playing that first game at home against the Brumbies—a fantastic team—in front of home fans will be fantastic.”
A plethora of World Cup talent has also been named by the Drua following Fiji’s incredible journey to the quarterfinals.
Before they take against the Blues in Whangārei, Iosefi Masi, Tevita Ikanivere, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Frank Lomani make a comeback to the starting lineup. Young gun Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, who will stake his claim to start with Caleb Muntz on the sidelines, joins Lomani in the second half.