Queensland Reds coach Nick Stiles has named an unchanged starting XV to take on the Western Force in Perth on Thursday night.
Stiles was pleased with his team's output in last Friday's win against the Sharks and has made just one change to the 23-man squad.
Taniela Tupou will come off the bench in place of Markus Vanzati after serving his two-game suspension and impressing in a 40 minute cameo for Brothers in their loss to Norths in the Australian Club Championship at Crosby Park on Saturday.
The Force were stoic in their loss to the Waratahs on Saturday night and Stiles said some fresh challenges lay ahead.
“We were pleased to get the win at home in Round 1, but this week presents a fresh challenge," he said.
"We know there’s plenty of work to do.
“This is our first away trip of the season and also our first Australian derby.
"It’s an important match and no doubt both teams will be fighting hard for a win.
"It’s always an arm wrestle against the Force.”
TEAM
Queensland Reds team to take on the Western Force at nib Stadium
1. James Slipper (C)
2. Stephen Moore
3. Sam Talakai
4. Rob Simmons
5. Kane Douglas
6. Adam Korczyk
7. George Smith
8. Scott Higginbotham
9. Nick Frisby
10. Quade Cooper
11. Eto Nabuli
12. Duncan Paia’aua
13. Samu Kerevi
14. Chris Kuridrani
15. Karmichael Hunt
Reserves
16. Andrew Ready
17. Sef Fa’agase
18. Taniela Tupou
19. Izack Rodda
20. Hendrik Tui
21. James Tuttle
22. Jake McIntyre
23. Izaia Perese (Potential Queensland/Super Rugby debut)
The Reds take on the Force on Thursday, kicking off at 9:30pm AEDT, broadcast live on Fox Sports 1 Channel 501.
