Rugby: Cipriani to debut from bench

Danny Cipriani. Photo / Getty Images

Former England international Danny Cipriani will make his Super 15 debut from the Melbourne Rebels bench, with James Hilgendorf to start at first five-eighths for their clash with NSW tomorrow night.

Cipriani failed to crack the run-on side after inconsistent performances in warm-up matches ahead of the AAMI Park encounter with the Waratahs.

Cipriani, 23, fell out of favour with the English because of his off-field exploits.

He is still likely to get some game time at No10 or fullback, covering for Julian Huxley who has had little preparation because of a medical condition.

Sam Cordingley has recovered from a hip injury to start at halfback.

Cooper Vuna will partner skipper Stirling Mortlock in the centres, while the starting wingers are Luke Rooney and Lachlan Mitchell. Nic Henderson Greg Somerville are the starting props and Ged Robinson is the hooker.

Rod Macqueen said all players would get a run against the powerful Waratahs.

"We know this will be our greatest test yet, the Waratahs are a well-drilled, physical team who have been playing together and enjoying success in Super rugby for many seasons.

"We are definitely the new kids on the block," said the coach.

- AAP