National Rugby Championship defending premiers Brisbane City have named eight NRC debutants in their matchday 23 for their opening match of the 2016 season against NSW Country.

The side features 10 players from last year’s squad and nine players with Super Rugby experience. Eight of Brisbane’s nine Premier clubs are represented.

“The guys are really looking forward to the opening round. We’ve been together for two weeks now and have already seen a real willingness to work hard for each other. They’re buzzing for this first match,” Brisbane City coach Rod Seib said.

“Brisbane City established itself as a successful team by working hard and enjoying our time together and that’s what we’re looking for from the group again this season.

“We’ve got a good balance of club and Super Rugby players and the NRC provides them an opportunity to continue to develop. It’s also great to see Reds players such as Sam Talakai and Andrew Ready, who made their progression from club, through NRC and into Super Rugby now stepping up as leaders for the next crop of players.”

Reds star Karmichael Hunt has been ruled out of this year’s NRC with a groin injury, while Junior Laloifi is expected to miss most of the season.

Brisbane City team to play NSW Country

Pettowa Paraka, Andrew Ready, Sam Talakai, David Findlay-Henaway, Lukhan Tui, Luke Beauchamp, Michael Gunn, Leroy Houston, Moses Sorovi, Jake Strachan, Alex Gibbon, Nathan Russell, Toby White, Chris Kuridrani, Patrick James. Reserves: Matt Mafi, Markus Vanzati, Feao Fotuaika, Isi Naisarani, Jack de Guingand, Angus Fowler, Levi Aumua, Brad Lacey.