NSW Waratahs Unveil Seven Possible Debutants for Round 1 Clash with Reds
The NSW Waratahs are poised to field seven potential debutants in their upcoming match against the Queensland Reds in the Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific on Friday, 13 February. The highly anticipated clash is set for 7:35 PM at Allianz Stadium, with fans eager to witness the new talents on display.
Debutants in the Starting Lineup
The Waratahs’ coach, Dan McKellar, has included several new faces in the starting lineup. Among the debutants are:
- Clem Halaholo – Blindside flanker
- James Hendren – Full-back
- Harry Potter – Wing
- Pete Samu – Number Eight
Additionally, bench players Folau Faingaa, Angus Blyth, and Jack Debreczeni are all new signings aiming for competitive debuts as well.
Pre-season Performance
In a recent pre-season trial, the Waratahs triumphed over the Reds with a convincing score of 49-19. McKellar anticipates a tougher challenge this time, noting the strength and depth of the Reds’ squad. He emphasized the importance of showcasing their debutants and continuing the club’s strong pathway development.
Key Player Insights
Clem Halaholo, aged 22, has been a part of the Waratahs Academy since his under-15 days. After a brief absence, he returned as injury cover and played a key role in the Super Rugby AUS title, scoring a try in the final. Joining him in the back row are:
- Charlie Gamble – Openside flanker
- Pete Samu – Number Eight
Half-Back and Centre Combinations
The half-back pairing of Jake Gordon and Lawson Creighton will lead the team, with Gordon returning without the captain’s armband for the first time since 2020. In the center, Joey Walton and Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii will form a strong duo, with Suaalii entering his second season in professional rugby.
Exciting New Additions
On the wings, Wallabies players Max Jorgensen and Harry Potter will start together, marking Potter’s debut with the Waratahs after signing from the Western Force. James Hendren, also an academy graduate, will make his entrance from full-back.
Bench Strength and Future Prospects
The Waratahs’ bench is reinforced with experienced players, including:
- Folau Faingaa
- Angus Blyth
- Jack Debreczeni
Faingaa, a seasoned player with 38 caps for the Wallabies, brings valuable experience and local connections, having been raised near Allianz Stadium.
Injuries and Expectations
The team will miss players Eamon Doyle, Austin Durbidge, and Angus Scott-Young due to injuries. However, McKellar remains optimistic about the contributions of new players to help turn the tide against the Reds, who have historically been a stronger opponent.
Fans can purchase tickets for the match and support the Waratahs in their Round 1 fixture against the Reds at Allianz Stadium this Friday.
