Timani in for Brumbies clash

Lopeti Timani has been named to start for the Rebels against the Brumbies on Saturday night.

Timani was a late withdrawal from the Rebels squad against the Crusaders last weekend with a head knock, but the Wallabies backrower is set to take up his spot in the Rebels second row.

That is one of five changes to the starting team for the weekend, with Mitch Inman and Hugh Sinclair back in the XV, Ben Volavola moving from fullback to flyhalf and Reece Hodge shifting to 15.

Cruze Ah-Nau returned to the bench for the first time since round four. 

Rebels coach Tony McGahan said the return of Timani would be crucial in a set piece battle.

"The Brumbies' physicality and strong set piece has provided them the foundation for a consistent season and they deserve their place at the top of the Australian conference going into the Test break,” he said.

“For us, this game presents an opportunity to knock off the conference leaders for a second time this season and show what this side is capable of without a year of off-field distractions and inconsistent selection."

The Rebels take on the Brumbies on Saturday night, kicking off at 7:45pm AEST LIVE on FOX SPORTS and via RUGBY.com.au RADIO.

TEAM

IN: Cruze Ah-Nau, Lopeti Timani, Wil Miller

OUT: Sean McMahon, Fereti Saaga, Esei Hangaana

Rebels team to take on Brumbies

1. Toby Smith

2. James Hanson

3. Tyrel Lomax

4. Steve Cummins

5. Lopeti Timani

6. Hugh Sinclair

7. Colby Fainga’a

8. Amanaki Mafi

9. Nic Stirzaker (Captain)

10. Ben Volavola

11. Marika Koroibete

12. Mitch Inman

13. Tom English

14. Sefa Naivalu

15. Reece Hodge

Reserves

16. Siliva Siliva

17. Cruze Ah-Nau

18. Laurie Weeks

19. Culum Retallick

20. Will Miller

21. Ben Meehan

22. Jackson Garden-Bachop

23. Jonah Placid