Cover image credit: AJF Photography
Sydney University Football Club’s Chris Talakai and Lachlan Swinton made their Super Rugby debuts for NSW at Brookvale Oval on Saturday.
Prop Talakai and lock Swinton came off the bench for the Waratahs in their 20-19 first round loss to the Hurricanes.
They joined SUFC teammates, prop Harry Johnson-Holmes, hooker Tolu Latu, halfback Jake Gordon, fullback Israel Folau and five-eighth Bernard Foley in the side.
SUFC and Australian halfback Nick Phipps was rested by the Waratahs for the season opener, while hooker Folau Fainga’a turned out for the Brumbies and five-eighth Stu Dunbar is signed for the Melbourne Rebels.
The NSW Women’s side was also in action in a trial against the Brumbies at Bowral at the weekend, as they prepare to defend their title in the Super W competition.
Sydney University had nine players in the in the win, including Taz Sheppard, Noella Green, Emily Chancellor, Ash Hewson, Ili Batibasaga, Kirilly Laws, Grace Hamilton, Sera Naiqama and Tisera Volkman.
Meanwhile, a 45-strong group of SUFC players has arrived in New Zealand on a 12-day pre-season tour.
Their first stop is Dunedin for a match against the Highlander Bravehearts. They’ll also play development teams from the Highlanders and Crusaders.
