Thorn's new Reds ready for Cooper and Rebels

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Reds head coach Brad Thorn will hope the absence of Quade Cooper and Karmichael Hunt will have no effect during the side's opening trial against the Rebels.

The coach has opted to hand new recruit Bryce Hegarty his first outing in a Reds jersey against his first Super Rugby club after moving north from the Waratahs in a swap for Karmichael Hunt this season.

Hunt will not be a factor this weekend, instead, Thorn should be a little worried about Quade Cooper, who has been named for the Rebels after missing their opening trial last weekend against the Brumbies.

Reds head coach Thorn commented on his squad selection: "We’ve worked hard in the pre-season. It’s a good opportunity for the boys to have a hit-out in a trial game.

"It’s good to see the new guys stepping up. They’ve been rewarded for their hard work and they’ll make the most of this opportunity,"

Reds squad:

Forwards:

Harry Hoopert, Feao Fotuaika, Ruan Smith, Gavin Luka, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Efi Ma’afu, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Harry Hockings, Angus Blyth, Angus Scott-Young, Liam Wright, Caleb Timu, Adam Korczyk, Fraser McReight, Scott Higginbotham

Backs:

Moses Sorovi, Tate McDermott, Scott Malolua, Hamish Stewart, Teti Tela, Duncan Paia’aua, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Filipo Daugunu, Jock Campbell, Bryce Hegarty, Jack Hardy, Will Eadie, Isaac Lucas

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