Japanese Test star Ayumu Goromaru has returned to the Reds staring XV to face the Hurricanes, as vice-captain Rob Simmons marks his 100th cap.
Regular fullback Karmichael Hunt has been ruled out of the team with injury, leaving the door open for Goromaru to come into the 15 jersey.
Replacement hooker Saia Fainga'a has also been ruled out with injury, bringing Matt Mafi into the 23.
Reds co-coach Nick Stiles said there would be no lack of motivation heading into the clash, against a vastly different Hurricanes side.
“The team recognises the significance of this match, both in testing ourselves against one of the competition leaders and in putting up a performance worthy of Rob Simmons' 100th cap for Queensland. It’s a fantastic achievement for Rob and he joins an elite group of centurions who have represented this state. It’s a just reward for his dedication and professionalism over a number of years," he said.
“Injury has meant that we’ve had to make a couple of changes to the side, but the guys we’re bringing in are familiar with what we’re trying to do and we’re confident in what they can offer. Being able to bring a guy of Ayumu Goromaru’s experience straight into the starting side is a big benefit for us. This is a good opportunity for him to step up and demonstrate what we know he is capable of.”
1. James Slipper (C)
2. Andrew Ready
3. Greg Holmes
4. Ben Matwijow
5. Rob Simmons
6. Hendrik Tui
7. Liam Gill
8. Curtis Browning
9. Nick Frisby
10. Jake McIntyre
11. Eto Nabuli
12. Anthony Fainga’a
13. Campbell Magnay
14. Chris Feauai-Sautia
15. Ayumu Goromaru
Reserves
16. Matt Mafi
17. Sef Fa’agase
18. Sam Talakai
19. Cadeyrn Neville
20. Michael Gunn
21. James Tuttle
22. Duncan Paia’aua
23. Junior Laloifi
