Tupou starts as Reds bolster their front row for Bulls clash

The Queensland Reds have made four changes to their starting XV for the match against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.

Chris Feauai-Sautia will start at outside centre in his return from a hamstring injury, as captain Samu Kerevi shifts back to 12.

Outside back Aidan Toua earns his first start this season on the wing replacing Sefa Naivalu, who is being rested in accordance with Rugby Australia’s workload management policy.

While prop Taniela Tupou and hooker Alex Mafi will both come off the bench and into the starting front row this weekend.

Tupou and Mafi’s inclusion in the XV sees Ruan Smith and Brandon Paenga-Amosa drop to the bench.

They’ll be joined by other new two faces with backrower Angus Scott-Young cleared of concussion and University of Queensland flyer Jock Campbell potentially set to make his Super Rugby and Queensland debut.

Reds head coach Brad Thorn said: “Playing at Loftus is always a great and challenging experience. The Bulls will be highly motivated playing at home. After a couple of results haven’t gone their way, they’ll be putting in a good performance in front of their fans.

“We’ve decided to rest Sefa as part of Rugby Australia’s resting policy. He’ll be missed. He’s been playing outstanding rugby for us. It sees Aidan get an opportunity this week.

“A big well done to Jock for being in the 23. It’s good to see another man from club Rugby come into our program and be rewarded for the hard work he’s put in. As a group we congratulate him,” said Thorn.