Brumbies coach Dan McKellar says it would be a risk to start incumbent Wallabies loosehead prop Scott Sio in their Super Rugby season opener.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 27-year-old has been overlooked for Friday night's clash with Melbourne at GIO Stadium in favour of former Queensland captain James Slipper.
Sio was Australian coach Michael Cheika's choice as starting loosehead prop in their November Test against England.
But Slipper will have first crack in the No.1 jersey after being thrown an off-season lifeline by the Brumbies. This followed a tumultuous final season at the Reds, where he battled injury, depression and twice tested positive for cocaine.
Sio was among three Wallabies to be rested for the Brumbies' trial wins against the Rebels and NSW Waratahs.
While David Pocock and Allan Alaalatoa have been picked in the starting XV, the 53-Test prop will come off the bench.
"I'd spoken to Scotty about it two weeks ago that that was my thinking and he understands," McKellar said.
"To go into the first game of the year, without any trial footy under his belt and start the game, would be a bit of risk."
Slipper impressed in the Brumbies' first trial, but suffered a rib injury last week against the Tahs and took himself to the bench after 25 minutes.
McKellar says Slipper has pulled up well from the knock and he has already boosted the Brumbies' pack significantly.
"We've got two international-standard loosehead props and scrums are an area we think we can dominate," McKellar said.
"(Slipper) has a whole lot of experience. He doesn't talk a whole lot but, when he does, guys certainly listen."
Former Crusaders flanker Pete Samu will begin his Brumbies career on the bench after playing limited minutes during the two trial wins.
Veteran hooker Josh Mann-Rea will make his first appearance since round three last year when he tore his hamstring off the bone.
Mann-Rea, who turns 38 next week, will have a fight on his hands for minutes with 23-year-old Folau Fainga'a eyeing a spot in the Wallabies' World Cup squad.
Brumbies: Tom Banks, Henry Speight, Tevita Kuridrani, Irae Simone, Toni Pulu, Christian Lealiifano (capt), Joe Powell, Lachlan McCaffrey, David Pocock, Rob Valetini, Sam Carter, Rory Arnold, Allan Alaalatoa, Folau Fainga'a. James Slipper.
Res: Josh Mann-Rea, Scott Sio, Leslie Leuluaialii-Makin, Blake Enever, Pete Samu, Matt Lucas, Wharenui Hawera Andy Muirhead.
Australian Associated Press
