Melbourne Rebel Reece Hodge will break another record this week, with the Rebels’ legend set to become the first player to make 100 Super Rugby appearances at the Club.
Hodge’s remarkable achievement comes just seven days after becoming the most Capped Rebel during last week’s dominant 52- 14 bonus point win over the Western Force.
With the Rebels chasing a strong performance to keep alive their finals aspirations, Friday night shapes as one of the most unforgettable nights in Melbourne Rebels history.
Melbourne Rebels Head Coach, Kevin Foote, has made four changes to his side for the pivotal clash, with Nick Jooste promoted to the starting XV, pairing with Reece Hodge at centre.
Meanwhile, Stacey Ili has been recalled for his 12th match of the season, joining Alex Mafi, who returns to the Match Day 23 as an impact player.
Jordan Uelese will look to build on his third start of the season, combining with Sam Talakai and Matt Gibbon in the front row, while Josh Canham and Matt Philip will pair in the second row following last week’s impressive performance against the Force.
Speaking to the media earlier this week, Uelese said he was excited for the opportunity to lock horns with an experienced Brumbies front row.
“This week is a massive challenge for us, but we’ve been diligent with our preparation and reviewing hard, so we’re really excited for the battle that is ahead of us,” said Uelese.
“For me personally it will be a great challenge and one I’m ready for. They’ve got a renowned squad with a lot of Wallabies in their team. They’re known for their set piece, so it’s on us to try and disrupt that. “
“It’s a really important game for the Club with Hodgey’s milestone. He’s such a great player and the ultimate professional and someone we call Mr Rebel. We really want to go out there and put in a performance to make him proud and celebrate a legend of our Club.”
Melbourne Rebels Match Day 23 vs ACT Brumbies
- Matt Gibbon
- Jordan Uelese
- Sam Talakai
- Josh Canham
- Matt Philip
- Josh Kemeny
- Brad Wilkin ( C )
- Richard Hardwick
- Ryan Louwrens
- Carter Gordon
- Monty Ioane
- Nick Jooste
- Reece Hodge
- Lachlan Anderson
- Andrew Kellaway
- Alex Mafi
- Isaac Aedo Kailea
- Pone Fa'amausili
- Trevor Hosea
- Vaiolini Ekuasi
- James Tuttle
- Stacey Ili
- Joe Pincus
