NSW Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson has named a strong side to play the Queensland Reds in the opening round of the 2016 Super Rugby season this Saturday.

The starting team for the historic 301st rivalry clash includes three players set to make their debut for the NSW Waratahs, including Test-capped All Black Zac Guildford on the wing, Intrust Super Shute Shield star David Horwitz at inside centre, and former Auckland Blues prop, Angus Ta’avao.

The run-on squad is bolstered by experience, with the likes of Michael Hooper, Dave Dennis, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Dean Mumm, Paddy Ryan and Will Skelton amongst the forwards, while Jed Holloway is set to add to his four Super Rugby caps in the number eight jersey.

The Tahs’ first highly-anticipated backline for Super Rugby 2016 is filled with an exciting combination of international experience combined with dependable mainstays, including Israel Folau, Nick Phipps, Kurtley Beale, Matt Carraro and Rob Horne.

Ex-NRL flyer, Reece Robinson and key playmaker, Bryce Hegarty also have their chance to make their NSW debuts off the bench against the Reds this weekend.

The reserves list features an equally impressive mix of talent, including the Waratahs highest capped player, Benn Robinson, Tolu Latu, local young gun Jack Dempsey and recently returned halfback, Matt Lucas.

The last time the NSW Waratahs faced the Queensland Reds in round 18 last year, NSW recorded a solid 31-5 victory.

Waratahs team to play Reds

Paddy Ryan, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Angus Ta’avao, Dean Mumm, Will Skelton, David Dennis, Michael Hooper, Jed Holloway, Nick Phipps, Kurtley Beale, Zac Guildford, David Horwitz, Rob Horne, Matt Carraro, Israel Folau. Reserves: Tolu Latu, Benn Robinson, Jeremy Tilse, Sam Lousi, Jack Dempsey, Matt Lucas, Bryce Hegarty, Reece Robinson.