NSW side for Blues trial match close to full strength

SYDNEY - The New South Wales Waratahs have named a near full-strength team for their final Super 12 trial match against the Blues at Whangarei tomorrow.

In the Waratahs final hitout before the Super 12 season commences Matt Dunning has been called into the side for his first match of the year at loosehead prop.

Loose forward Wycliff Palu has been bracketed on the bench but his position will be decided by his recovery from a painful cork to the top of his left knee.

"We'll see how he goes at training today and most likely make a call on him tomorrow," head coach Ewen McKenzie said.

Rocky Elsom will get another chance to impress McKenzie, this time at openside flanker, while Stephen Hoiles will run on at blindside.

"This is our last hit out before the competition starts so it's important to keep progressing," McKenzie said.

Internationals Brendan Cannon, Phil Waugh and Nathan Grey have been named on the bench.

NSW Waratahs: Mat Rogers, Peter Hewat, Morgan Turinui, Shaun Berne, Lote Tuqiri, Lachlan MacKay, Chris Whitaker (captain), David Lyons, Rocky Elsom, Stephen Hoiles, Daniel Vickerman, Justin Harrison, Al Baxter, Adam Freier, Matt Dunning.

Reserves: Gareth Hardy, Brendan Cannon, Aaron Broughton-Rouse, Alex Kanaar, Wycliff Palu/Lei Tomiki, Phil Waugh, Chris O'Young, Nathan Grey, Chris Siale, Winston Mafi, Cameron Shepherd.

- AAP