Waratahs veteran Wycliff Palu will make his first start of 2016, named at number eight for NSW's clash with the Highlanders on Friday night.
Palu is one of two changes to the Waratahs' starting XV to face the reigning Super Rugby champions, with Jed Holloway shifting to the bench, while hooker Tolu Latu replaces Tatafu Polota-Nau (injured).
Former NRL flyer Reece Robinson will have his second shot to earn a Super Rugby cap after being named on the bench.
In other changes to the bench, Hugh Roach has been named as back-up to Latu, and young prop Tom Robertson will have his chance to make his Super Rugby debut after coming in Matt Sandell.
TEAM
1. Paddy Ryan
2. Tolu Latu
3. Angus Ta’avao
4. Dean Mumm
5. Will Skelton
6. David Dennis
7. Michael Hooper
8. Wycliff Palu
9. Nick Phipps
10. Kurtley Beale
11. Zac Guildford
12. David Horwitz
13. Rob Horne
14. Matt Carraro
15. Israel Folau
RESERVES
16. Hugh Roach
17. Jeremy Tilse
18. Tom Robertson
19. Sam Lousi
20. Jed Holloway
21. Jack Dempsey
22. Matt Lucas
23. Reece Robinson
