Deegan to take playmaking reins in Japan

Rookie flyhalf Andrew Deegan has been given the keys to the Waratahs attack this weekend, as they face Top League powerhouse Suntory.

Deegan will line up at 10 when the Waratahs take on the Sungoliath, with capped Waratah Mack Mason on the bench, after a week training alongside the Wallabies.

Jake Gordon has remained with the Wallabies squad, leaving NSW with just the one halfback for the clash, skipper Matt Lucas.

Last year's Aussie U20s skipper Maclean Jones will take up the number seven spot usually occupied by Michael Hooper, combining with Michael Wells and Jed Holloway in the backrow.

Their young backline will see Andrew Kellaway at outside cente, with Irae Simone at 12 and Harry Jones and Taqele Naiyaravoro on the wings. 

The Waratahs will meet Suntory at 2:30pm AEST on Saturday. 

TEAM

Waratahs to take on Suntory

. Paddy Ryan

2. Damien Fitzpatrick

3. Angus Taavao

4. David McDuling

5. Will Skelton

6. Michael Wells

7. Maclean Jones

8. Jed Holloway

9. Matt Lucas (c)

10. Andrew Deegan

11. Harry Jones­­­

12. Irae Simone

13. Andrew Kellaway

14. Taqele Naiyaravoro

15. Bryce Hegarty

Reserves

16. Hugh Roach

17. David Lolohea

18. Sam Needs

19. Senio Toleafoa

20. Pat McCutcheon

21. David Horwitz

22. Cam Clark

23. Reece Robinson

24. Mack Mason