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O'Connor starts at flyhalf

The Rebels have made two changes to their side that will host the Southern Kings in Melbourne on Saturday.

James O'Connor will start at flyhalf at the expense of Angus Roberts and Cooper Vuna returns to the starting XV on the wing.

Lachlan Mitchell returns from injury to the bench, joining Angus Roberts.

The Rebels have resisted the return of regular captain Gareth Delve from injury, with a bye following this Saturday's match.

Rebels coach Damien Hill has showed faith in the side that produced a 30-23 bonus-point win over the Western Force in Perth last week.

"It was a solid performance in Perth and we feel we have a very balanced side with James [O'Connor] at No.10 this weekend," said Hill

"Angus is continuing to develop at this Club as is Jordy Reid and Nic Stirzaker. They are all part of a new brigade of talent coming through this Rebels program.

"The team has a wonderful opportunity to play in front of its members, fans and wealth of supporters here in Melbourne. Something I know the players will be looking forward to.

"This is a very spirited Southern Kings outfit with a great leader in Andries Strauss, we know what they are capable of.

"Many people close to the Kings would not have seen last weeks result against the Brumbies as a surprise."

Rebels: 15 Richard Kingi, 14 Jason Woodward, 13 Mitch Inman, 12 Rory Sidey, 11 Cooper Vuna, 10 James O'Connor, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Scott Higginbotham (captain), 7 Scott Fuglistaller, 6 Luke Jones, 5 Cadeyrn Neville, 4 Hugh Pyle, 3 Paul Alo-Emile, 2 Ged Robinson, 1 Nic Henderson.

Replacements: 16 Shota Horie, 17 Laurie Weeks, 18 Jordy Reid, 19 Jarrod Saffy, 20 Nic Stirzaker, 21 Lachlan Mitchell, 22 Angus Roberts.

Date: Saturday, April 13

Venue: AAMI Stadium, Melbourne

Kick-off: 19.40 (11.40 SA time; 09.40 GMT)

Referee: Andrew Lees (Australia)

Assistant referees: Ian Smith (Australia), Richard, Goswell (Australia)

TMO: Matt Goddard (Australia)

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