Cameron Shepherd: Ruled out

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Shepherd blow for Force

The WesternForce will open their Super Rugby campaign against the Brumbies without full-back Cameron Shepherd who has been ruled out through injury.

Shepherd featured in last week’s trial loss to the Reds, but was restricted to light duties this week after picking up a slight strain in his leg.

His spot in the run-on side has been taken by Alfie Mafi, with former scrum-half James Stannard named at fly-half following the pre-season departure of Willie Ripia.

Former skipper Nathan Sharpe has recovered from his calf complaint and will partner Toby Lynn in the second row, with regular lock Sam Wykes (hamstring) ruled out.

Marquee winger and Fijian international Napolioni Nalaga will make his Force debut, as will Lynn, prop Salesi Ma’afu and outside centre Winston Stanley.

Hooker Elvis Taione, lock Phoenix Battye, flanker Angus Cottrell, flyhalf Ben Seymour and outside back Sam Wara will also make their debuts if they are required off the bench.

Western Force: 15 Alfie Mafi, 14 Nick Cummins, 13 Winston Stanley, 12 Rory Sidey, 11 Napolioni Nalaga, 10 James Stannard, 9 Brett Sheehan, 8 Ben McCalman, 7 David Pocock (capt), 6 Matt Hodgson, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 Toby Lynn, 3 Salesi Ma’au, 2 Nathan Charles, 1 Pek Cowan.
Replacements: Elvis Taione, Kieran Longbottom, Phoenix Battye, Angus Cottrell, Justin Turner, Ben Seymour, Sam Wara.

Date: Friday, February 24
Venue: Canberra Stadium

Kick-off:19:40
Referee: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand)