Moana Pasifika has named their team to take on the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium on Friday night.
It will be a special match for Sydney-born first five, Patrick Pellegrini who will play his first Super Rugby game at Allianz Stadium, in front of his family and friends.
It follows a superb individual performance against the Chiefs last weekend, where he showcased his flair and playmaking prowess, setting up a try and breaking through multiple defenders.
Joining Pellegrini in the backline is the experienced and skillful duo of Melani Matavao and Jonathan Taumateine who both return from injury. Matavao gets the nod to start at halfback.
The fleet-footed Tuna Tuitama also returns to the starting lineup at right wing.
Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua and Semisi Paea are also named in the starting forward pack. While Ola Tauelangi has the chance to come off the bench.
Moana Pasifika have won three out of four of their previous matches against the Waratahs.
Friday 17th April
Allianz Stadium, 9:35pm NZT
Starting XV
1. Abraham Pole
2. Millennium Sanerivi
3. Chris Apoua
4. Tom Savage
5. Veikoso Poloniati
6. Miracle Faiilagi (c)
7. Semisi Paea
8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa
9. Melani Matavao
10. Patrick Pellegrini
11. Glen Vaihu
12. Tevita Latu
13. Solomon Alaimalo
14. Tuna Tuitama
15. William Havili
Impact
16. Samiuela Moli
17. Malakai Hala-Ngatai
18. Paula Latu
19. Jimmy Tupou
20. Ola Tauelangi
21. Jonathan Taumateine
22. Faletoi Peni
23. Tyle Pulini
Unavailable due to injury: Allan Craig (concussion), Julian Savea (shoulder), Lalomilo Lalomilo (shoulder), Monu Moli (foot), Niko Jones (calf), Ngani Laumape (knee), Tevita Ofa (finger), Tito Tuipulotu (thumb), Tupou Afungia (neck).
ENDS
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