Wallaby Mark Nawaqanitawase returns for Waratahs clash with Chiefs

After being dropped ahead of the Waratahs’ win over the Crusaders, Wallaby Mark Nawaqanitawase will line up on the right wing when the team hosts the Chiefs on Friday.

Nawaqanitawase, who has signed a deal with NRL club the Sydney Roosters from next year, will start on the right wing while Triston Reilly has retained a spot in the run-on side.

With Izaia Perese dropping to the bench, Joey Walton has shifted into the midfield.

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The Waratahs have otherwise named a relatively familiar side, with the inclusion of Hugh Sinclair and Miles Amatosero the changes to the forward pack.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

1

Draws

0

Wins

4

Average Points scored

20

33

First try wins

80%

Home team wins

60%

Hooker Jay Fonokalafi is also set to return off the bench with Theo Fourie sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury.

Both the Waratahs and Chiefs come into this match feeling refreshed after a bye week. The Chiefs lost their last match to the Hurricanes and will be eager to bounce back away from home.

This Trans-Tasman derby at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium will get underway at 7:35 pm AEST on Friday night.

NSW Waratahs team to take on Chiefs

1. Hayden Thompson-Stringer
2. Julian Heaven
3. Harry Johnson-Holmes
4. Hugh Sinclair
5. Miles Amatosero
6. Lachlan Swinton
7. Charlie Gamble
8. Ned Hanigan
9. Jake Gordon (c)
10. Tane Edmed
11. Triston Reilly
12. Lalakai Foketi
13. Joey Walton
14. Mark Nawaqanitawase
15. Max Jorgensen

Replacements:

16. Jay Fonokalafi
17. Lewis Ponini
18. Tom Ross
19. Jed Holloway
20. Langi Gleeson
21. Jack Grant
22. Will Harrison
23. Izaia Perese

Unavailable: David Porecki, Thomas Lambert, Archer Holz, Mesu Kunavula, Ned Slack-Smith, Daniel Botha, Mahe Vailanu, Angus Bell, Theo Fourie