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.