Brumbies to come up against familiar faces

Western Force recruits Reesjan Pasitoa and Bayley Kuenzle will be aiming to take down their former side when they play the Brumbies in Canberra on Sunday.

Pasitoa spent two seasons at the Brumbies before making the move to the Force for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

The 20-year-old has been thrust straight into the No.10 jersey for the Force's season opener, and he'll be joined by former Brumbies utility back Kuenzle, who was named at inside centre.

Force coach Tim Sampson is excited to see what Pasitoa will produce.

"There's certain players you've just got to let them off the leash, let them be natural footy players, and he's certainly one of those," Sampson said.

The Force signed four former Brumbies during the off-season, and Sampson said that could prove to be an advantage heading into Sunday's game.

"The bonus we have is these guys know how the Brumbies are going to play and what certain individuals do," he said.

"Importantly as well is they're comfortable at the stadium."

Wallabies lock Izack Rodda will make his Force debut, while Fiji winger Manasa Mataele was also named in the starting side.

The Brumbies, who lost to Queensland 19-16 in last year's Super Rugby AU grand final, have opted for stability in their season opener.

Halfback Nic White and flyhalf Noah Lolesio will reignite their partnership, while Allan Alaalatoa will again captain the side.

Alaalatoa will be joined by James Slipper and hooker Folau Fainga'a in a powerful front row.

Irae Simone and Len Ikitau combine in the centres, with Tom Banks at fullback.

NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman has named three debutants for Friday night's clash with Fijian Drua in Sydney, with lock Geoff Cridge and winger Dylan Pietsch handed starts, while Welsh