Jono Lance replaces Israel Folau at fullback in Waratahs side to face Sharks

FORMER Reds title-winner Jonno Lance will make his Waratahs debut on Sunday against the Sharks, replacing injured fullback Israel Folau.

Jono Lance will make his Waratahs starting debut against the Sharks.

FORMER Reds title-winner Jonno Lance will make his debut for the Waratahs on Sunday against the Sharks after replacing injured fullback Israel Folau.

Lance’s call-up was one of six changes made by NSW coach Michael Cheika, which also included the unusual selection of centre Rob Horne on the wing.

Folau was ruled out of the Durban clash with after suffering a throat injury against the Rebels, but Cheika resisted moving Kurtley Beale to fullback and instead turned to Lance.

News_Image_File: Jono Lance will start at fullback for the Waratahs.

The ex-Queenslander, who played No. 15 in their Super Rugby final victory in 2011, has a good kicking game and is a strong defender.

Cheika said Horne’s performance off the bench against the Rebels had got him the nod ahead of Matt Carraro for Alofa Alofa’s wing spot, although it appears likely the direct centre will spend time in the midfield.

Elsewhere, Wycliff Palu’s return to the starting side at No. 8 saw in-form lock Kane Douglas benched, with Dave Dennis moving back to no. 6 and Jacques Potgieter returning to the second row.

Prop Benn Robinson was named to start at loosehead prop, with Sekope Kepu shifting to tighthead and Paddy Ryan dropping back to the bench.

News_Rich_Media: Sean Maloney's 'The Short Ball' gives you a quick recap of all the round 6 Super Rugby action.

NSW Waratahs team to take on the Sharks

1. Benn Robinson

2. Tatafu Polota Nau

3. Sekope Kepu

4. Jacques Potgieter

5. Kane Douglas

6. Dave Dennis

7. Michael Hooper

8. Wycliff Palu

9. Nick Phipps

10. Bernard Foley

11. Peter Betham

12. Kurtley Beale

13. Adam Ashley-Cooper

14. Rob Horne

15. Jonno Lance

Replacements to be confirmed