Wallabies winger Henry Speight is one five players in line to debut for the Queensland Reds against his former team, the Brumbies, in Friday's Super Rugby season opener in Canberra.
Twenty-year-old backrower Harry Wilson has been named to start at No.8, while Dane Zander (20), Seru Uru (23) and Hunter Paisami (20) could also make their first appearances after being named on the bench.
Isaac Lucas (20) has been handed the playmaker role after strong form for the youthful Reds in their two good trial wins over the Melbourne Rebels and the NSW Waratahs.
Friday's match will also be the first Super Rugby game as Reds captain for Liam Wright.
A veteran of 19 Tests, Speight played 40 minutes in the win over the Waratahs in Dalby last week and is part of an unchanged backline which includes the experienced James O'Connor partnering young gun Jordan Petaia in the centres.
"Dalby and Gladstone had us for two trial games which were important hit-outs leading into the season," coach Brad Thorn said.
"Five guys could make their Queensland debuts on Friday night which is an awesome thing to recognise. They've worked hard during the pre-season and deserve their selection."
Reds: JP Smith, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Taniela Tupou, Angus Blyth, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Angus Scott-Young, Liam Wright (capt), Harry Wilson, Tate McDermott, Isaac Lucas, Henry Speight, James O'Connor, Jordan Petaia, Jock Campbell, Bryce Hegarty. (Reserves: Alex Mafi, Dane Zander, Feao Fotuaika, Izack Rodda, Seru Uru, Moses Sorovi, Hamish Stewart, Hunter Paisami.
Australian Associated Press
