The Force get us underway!

Good day and welcome to Ultimate Rugby's coverage of the second Super Rugby AU game of the season. The Brumbies kick off the defence of their title against the Western Force, who have been busy in the player market during the offseason. Today marks the Super Rugby debut of the most decorated Irish rugby player with Rob Kearney starting at fullback for the home side. Wallabies stars Tevita Kuridrani and Tom Robertson, Argentinians Santiago Medrano and Tomás Lezana, have all been named in the starting line-up. The Brumbies have named a powerful side for their opening game with Nic White and Noah Lolesio looking set to entertain. Stay with us for live updates.

"We're super excited to be back at the starting line of what's going to be a great Super Rugby season."

To head away is an experience we haven't had a lot of over the past twelve months and I know as a group we love being on the road, enjoying each other's company and getting a positive result.

We saw in our trial, that the Western Force are a quality outfit and there's no doubt they'll be up for what's going to be a great occasion at HBF Park on Friday night in front of a big crowd." - Brumbies coach Dan McKellar

James Slipper will play his 137th Super Rugby match at HBF Park, as part of an all-Test row that includes Folau Fainga'a at hooker and skipper Allan Alaalatoa in the number three jersey.

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar will unleash Wallabies squad member Len Ikitau at outside centre in the side's opening round of Super Rugby AU against the Western Force in Perth.

Experienced Argentinian playmaker Tomás Cubelli and an Australian contingent, including dynamic flyhalf Jake McIntyre, Australian 7s representative Tim Anstee (Super Rugby debut) and towering lock Ryan McCauley, are all set to make their potential Force debuts from the bench.

Captain Ian Prior will lead the team out for the Force’s first Super Rugby match in WA since 2017, exactly three years, seven months and four days ago.

The Western Force will debut five players in Friday’s blockbuster season opener against the reigning champion ACT Brumbies.