Wells and Fainga'a to start against the Highlanders

Thu, Mar 16, 2023, 10:00 AM
WM
by Western Force Media


Five changes made to starting XV to take on the Highlanders and Folau Fainga'a to start at hooker. Kaitu'u and Horton both named at #16 depending on selection.

Fainga'a is set to start in the front row, pending a final meeting this afternoon on his HIA protocols.

Captain Michael Wells returns to the starting line-up for Saturday's Round 4 Super Rugby Pacific match against the Highlanders at Invercargill Rugby Park.

WHERE TO WATCH: Don't miss a minute of the action, stream the game live on Stan Sport.

Wells rejoins the team after completing his compulsory 12-day HIA omission. He will start at flanker, replacing Tim Anstee, who has moved to the finishers.

Force head coach Simon Cron has made a further four changes to the starting line-up.

Towering lock Ryan McCauley starts, pairing up with dominant locking companion Jeremy Williams, also completing his HIA protocols sustained against the Reds. This match will see the two pair up in the second row for the first time in Super Rugby. Felix Kalapu moves to the finishers.

Gareth Simpson will make his Super Rugby debut on Sunday, starting at scrum-half. The 25-year-old has been training with the Force for the past two months travelling from Worcester Warriors and Saracens before that. He is on loan to the Force and will return to Saracens post the 2023 season.

Fellow English recruit Zach Kibirige returns to the wing after resting his hamstring last match.

Siosifa Amone will play as number 18 after a SANZAAR Judicial Committee Hearing reduced his Red Card from last Saturday's match to a warning.

The Force take on the Highlanders this Sunday from 10:35 pm AWST. Don't miss a minute of the action, stream the game live on Stan Sport.

https://westernforce.rugby/news/well...anders-2023316