Waratahs rugby team coach Chris Hickey is expected to field a full strength side for the Super Rugby franchise's first warm up game against the Flying Fijians next month.

Eight strong Wallabies contingent, including Berrick Barnes and Kurtley Beale, will join the Waratahs training this week for the first time since returning from the end of year tour to Europe.

The rest of the 'Tahs have been in pre-season training since November with their ranks bolstered by the return of Wycliff Palu following an ankle reconstruction.

Fly half Daniel Halangahu and centre Rob Horne are also back after recovering from surgery.

The Waratahs open their Super Rugby campaign against the Rebels in Melbourne on February 18th, and despite conversations with the Wallabies coach Robbie Deans, Hickey said he will be fielding his best squad against the Fijians.

The Flying Fijians and Waratahs match will be played on the 4th of next month.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo
[Source: Planet Rugby]