Latu back for Waratahs to face Blues
Waratahs hooker Tolu Latu headlines a raft of changes for the side's lineup to face the Blues.
Latu is one of four changes to the starting lineup as he returns from a shoulder injury, with halfback Jake Gordon also returning ot the 23 after a week out, while Jed Holloway will start at eight.
Winger Taqele Naiyatavoro has been ruled out with a broken hand but is expected to be fit for their derby against the Rebels in a fortnight's time, with Reece Robinson taking his spot in the starting side.
Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson said they wanted to build on the improvements they showed in a 29-26 win over the Reds last weekend.
“Last Saturday we showed the pride our team has in the NSW jersey and we want to do that again for our fans at home,” he said.
“We are pleased to welcome back Tolu Latu who has been a stand out for the team in the number two jersey this season and was forced out last weekend due to a shoulder injury.
“The rotation among our halves will see Jake Gordon return to the starting fifteen with Nick Phipps on the bench. As I’ve said previously, we have three strong halves and we this combination is the right one to take on the Blues."
The Waratahs host the Blues at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night, kicking off at 7:45pm AEST LIVE on FOX SPORTS and via radio on RUGBY.com.au.
TEAM
IN: Jake Gordon, Tolu Latu, Reece Robinson
OUT: Taqele Naiyaravoro, Matt Lucas, Damien Fitzpatrick
Waratahs team to face the Blues
1. Tom Robertson
2. Tolu Latu
3. Sekope Kepu
4. Dean Mumm
5. David McDuling
6. Ned Hanigan
7. Michael Hooper ©
8. Jed Holloway
9. Jake Gordon
10. Bernard Foley
11. Cam Clark
12. David Horwitz
13. Rob Horne
14. Reece Robinson
15. Israel Folau
Reserves
16. Hugh Roach
17. Paddy Ryan
18. Angus Taavao
19. Will Skelton
20. Michael Wells
21. Nick Phipps
22. Bryce Hegarty
23. Irae Simone.
