Waratahs call on big guns for Chiefs clash
Following last weekend’s last gasp 21-17 win over the Brumbies, Gibson has injected a some experience into the squad for the encounter.
Nick Phipps, Kurtley Beale and Rob Horne have been brought into the starting XV, together with Matt Carraro, who moves to the left wing.
As one of many young players who stepped up last week, David Horwitz retains the No.12 jersey, while standouts Reece Robinson and Zac Guildford will keep their positions at right wing and fullback respectively.
Amongst the forwards, captain Michael Hooper, Dean Mumm and Tatafu Polota-Nau have been added to the squad. Joining them in the starting fold is prop, Angus Ta'avao who scored the last minute winning try that helped seal the game for the Waratahs in Wagga Wagga.
Hard-hitting young gun, Jack Dempsey replaces Dave Dennis who is still recovering from concussion symptoms suffered in the opening minutes of the match against the Brumbies last Saturday.
No.8, Jed Holloway has also been left out of the line-up after suffering similar symptoms following the game, making way for former Australian Sevens representative, Brad Wilkin.
Gibson said he was keen to trial some new combinations against quality opposition.
"Away games are obviously a bit tougher, but the trip to New Zealand will only stand us in good stead.
"Being in each other's company for 10 days touring together will also provide a good opportunity to grow the bonds between us."
The team to take on the Chiefs travel to New Zealand today ahead of the game at Rotorua international Stadium. Bernard Foley, Israel Folau and Sam Lousi will join the touring squad in New Zealand following the match.
Waratahs: 15 Zac Guildford, 14 Reece Robinson, 13 Rob Horne, 12 David Horwitz, 11 Matt Carraro, 10 Kurtley Beale, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Brad Wilkin, 7 Michael Hooper (captain), 6 Jack Dempsey, 5 Will Skelton, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Angus Ta'avao, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Jeremy Tilse.
Replacements – from: Tolu Latu, Benn Robinson, Paddy Ryan, Senio Toleafoa, Ned Hanigan, Matt Lucas, Bryce Hegarty, Andrew Kellaway, Jake Gordon, Harry Jones, Hugh Roach, Matt Sandell.
Date: Friday, February 12
Venue: Rotorua International Stadium, Rotorua
Kick-off: 18.00 (16.00 AEDT; 05.00 GMT)
Referee: Nick Briant (New Zealand)
