Maddocks in line for shock Rebels debut
Jack Maddocks has only just signed with the Melbourne Rebels after a standout U20s season but the dual sporting star is set for his Super Rugby debut against the Reds.
The U20s fullback penned a deal for the 2017 season and beyond with Melbourne but injuries and his impressive showing in training accelerated his progression.
Maddocks' opportunity comes after injuries to a handful of Rebels players, including starting fullback Mike Harris (hamstring), who will not have a chance to farewell Super Rugby before heading to Lyon.
Coach Tony McGahan said the teen had been a standout in training since joining the club in sessions as injury cover.
"Jack’s impressed us at training last week and really impressed with the Australian U20s in Manchester, he’s a good physical player and gets an opportunity this weekend,” he said.
“He gets this opportunity because we think he can play, we certainly wouldn’t put him out there if there was any doubts about whether he can handle Super Rugby. We have faith in him that he can deliver.”
The Rebels will welcome back big-name stars for the clash, with Sean McMahon and Luke Jones overcoming injury to line up in the side for Saturday's clash, while reece Hodge has also shakend off a shoulder concern to start at inside centre.
Mitch Inman also returns at outside centre, pushing youngster Sione Tuipulotu to the bench.
Jones's lock partner Lopeti Timani wasn't so fortunate, failing to overcome a concussion for the second week in a row.
Melbourne Rebels team to face Queensland Reds, Saturday 7:40pm AEST at Suncorp Stadium
1. Toby Smith
2. James Hanson
3. Laurie Weeks
4. Luke Jones
5. Culum Retallick
6. Sean McMahon
7. Jordy Reid
8. Colby Fainga'a
9. Nic Stirzaker (captain)
10. Jack Debreczeni
11. Tom English
12. Reece Hodge
13. Mitch Inman
14. Sefa Naivalu
15. Paul Asquith
Reserves
16. Pat Leafa
17. Cruze Ah Nau
18. Jamie Hagan
19. Sam Jeffries
20. Rob Leota
21. Ben Meehan
22. Sione Tuipulotu
23. Jack Maddocks*
