The Queensland Reds have named a strong side for their opening match in the 2017 Super Rugby season against the Sharks from Durban at Suncorp Stadium this Friday. Veteran Test flanker George Smith will play his 143rd Super Rugby match and his first in Reds colours, alongside fellow recruits Stephen Moore, Scott Higginbotham and Quade Cooper, who have all been named in the starting side. While Smith is the only ‘debutant’ in the Reds’ starting side, Markus Vanzati, Izack Rodda and Izaia Perese are in line to make their Reds and Super Rugby debuts after being named on the bench. Reds head coach Nick Stiles said his first side for the 2017 season reflected not only the depth of the squad, but the fierce competition for spots. “It’s pretty exciting to think in two days we’ll be back playing at Suncorp Stadium in front of our home fans,” Stiles said. “We’ve all had this date circled in our calendars for a long time and the players and staff have worked incredibly h