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This is a great video from the Tahs for debutant Ioane Moananu who got a surprise on his jersey presentation.
A very likable young player who used to study nursing before getting his shot in professional rugby with the Crusaders.
His former teammate in Christchurch James O’Connor liked what he saw, recommended him to Waratahs coach Dan McKellar and here we are.
Here are the teams:
There is one change from the Waratahs after last week’s victory over the Reds with hooker Ioane Moananu getting his NSW debut after being part of the title-winning Crusaders last year. More about him later.
Waratahs (1-15): Tom Lambert, Ethan Dobbins, Dan Botha, Matt Philip (c), Miles Amatosero, Clem Halaholo, Charlie Gamble, Pete Samu, Jake Gordon, Lawson Creighton, Max Jorgensen, Joey Walton, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Harry Potter, James Hendren
Replacements: Ioane Moananu, Isaac Kailea, Siosifa Amone, Angus Blyth, Leafi Talataina, Teddy Wilson, Jack Debreczeni, Triston Reilly
Fijian Drua (1-15): Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Isoa Nasilasila, Temo Mayanavanua (co-c), Joseva Tamani, Motikiai Murray, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani (co-c), Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Taniela Rakuro, Isikeli Rabitu, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Ponipate Loganimasi, Ilaisa Droasese
Replacements: Kavaia Tagivetaua, Peni Ravai, Samuela Tawake, Mesake Vocevoce, Kitione Salawa, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Inia Tabuavou, Manasa Mataele
Good evening and thank you for your company. It’s Jonathan Drennan with you tonight at Allianz Stadium for round two of Super Rugby with the Waratahs taking on the Drua, after last Friday’s 24-point victory over the Reds.
It is a humid evening in Sydney, the air is so thick you could carve your name in it. The kind of conditions the Drua absolutely relish.
The weather hasn’t stopped junior Sydney rugby clubs turning out in force for the Waratahs walk, with Max Jorgensen by far star attraction after his two tries against the Reds.
I’m really looking forward to this one, the Drua will have a major point to prove after losing to Moana Pasifika last week in Fiji. Equally, the Waratahs will want to be far more ruthless in their opponent’s attacking 22.
Dan Botha on the charge against the Reds for the Waratahs in round one.Credit: Getty Images