Rebels team for Sharks announced

The RaboDirect Rebels welcome the return of their Captain, Gareth Delve, from injury for their first tour match against the Sharks in Durban.

The Rebels also welcome back Wallaby winger, Cooper Vuna, who has missed the Club’s opening matches with a scapular injury he sustained in the first trial last month.

RaboDirect Rebels Head Coach, Damien Hill, has also rewarded promising New Zealand born winger, Jason Woodward, selecting the talented rookie in the run on side for his debut.

“The Club is in a great position having players such as Jason and Cooper available for selection.

“Cooper is renowned for his try scoring ability, while Jason has shown in last season’s ITM Cup he is a player of the future,” said Hill.

“Gareth has made an immediate impact since returning. His on and off field leadership will be a great acquisition for this young Rebels side taking the field.”

While it will be an historical match for Woodward, the night will also celebrate Laurie Weeks’ 50th Super Rugby Cap.

Rebels Hooker Ged Robinson paid tribute to his front row teammate.

“Many people would appreciate the work Laurie does on the field, but the people who know him personally and at this Club understand how important he is to the team dynamic and how resilient he has been over the past two seasons to get to this point.

“He is a very popular member of the Melbourne Rebels Club.”

The RaboDirect Rebels Team to play the the Sharks at Kings Park March 23. Kick off 5.05pm (LIVE FOXSPORTS 3 March 24. Kick off 2.05am AEST)

1. Nic Henderson

2. Ged Robinson

3. Laurie Weeks*

4. Hugh Pyle

5. Luke Jones

6. Scott Higginbotham

7. Scott Fuglistaller

8. Gareth Delve (c)

9. Nick Phipps

10. James O’Connor

11. Cooper Vuna

12. Lachlan Mitchell

13. Mitch Inman

14. Jason Woodward^

15. Angus Roberts

16. Shota Horie

17. Paul Alo-Emile

18. Cadeyrn Neville

19. Jordy Reid

20.  Nic Stirzaker

21. Rory Sidey

22. Richard Kingi

*50th Super Rugby Cap

^Super Rugby Debut

Not considered due to injury: Kurtley Beale, Kimami Sitauti.

Tags: Rebels, Sharks, Super Rugby