NSW Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson has made six changes to his team for the Waratahs’ third and final pre-season trial against the Highlanders tomorrow in Queenstown.

Israel Folau will return to the field at fullback in what will be his first match since injuring his ankle during last year’s Rugby World Cup, while flyhalf Bernard Foley will make his return from the bench.

Rob Horne will play at outside centre with Andrew Kellaway named on the wing.

In the forwards, Paddy Ryan will be trialled as loosehead prop while Dave Dennis and Jed Holloway return at flanker and number eight respectively, after missing last week’s trial due to concussion.

Gibson said he was still trialling different combinations as competition heats up ahead of Super Rugby round one next week.

“This will be the last opportunity for players to push for selection ahead of the season,” Gibson said.

“There has been a distinct change in attitude as the season grows nearer. We have shifted our focus, correcting our off-field components in order to benefit what we do on the field.

“The Highlanders are the reigning Super Rugby champions and are therefore the perfect opposition for us in our final trial.”

NSW Waratahs team to play trial against Highlanders

Paddy Ryan, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Angus Ta’avao, Dean Mumm, Sam Lousi, David Dennis, Michael Hooper (C), Jed Holloway, Nick Phipps, Kurtley Beale, Andrew Kellaway, David Horwitz, Rob Horne, Reece Robinson, Israel Folau. Reserves: Tolu Latu, Jeremy Tilse, Benn Robinson, Will Skelton, Jack Dempsey, Matt Lucas, Bryce Hegarty, Zac Guildford, Jake Gordon, Matt Carraro, Senio Toleafoa, Matt Sandell, Hugh Roach, Ned Hanigan, Brad Wilkin, Bernard Foley, Harry Jones.