Wallabies Kellaway and Tupou return for Rebels' derby with in-form Brumbies

The Melbourne Rebels have welcomed Wallabies Andrew Kellaway and Taniela Tupou back into their matchday squad as they prepare for an almighty challenge waiting for them in Canberra.

Kellaway is back in the run-on side at fullback while Tupou will provide impact off the bench when the Melburnians take on the high-flying ACT Brumbies at GIO Stadium.

The Brumbies, who are coming off a dramatic win over the Crusaders at the very same venue, have beaten some good teams there this season and remain in the hunt for a top-two finish.

Coach Kevin Foote has named Victorian prop Isaac Kailea in the front row which also includes Jordan Uelese and powerful prop Sam Talakai.

While Angelo Smith and Josh Canham round out the tight five, watch out for the lethal backrow trio of captain Rob Leota, relentless defender Brad Wilkin and the always-dangerous Vaiolinil Ekuasi.

Ryan Louwrens will partner Jake Strachan in the halves, while Nick Jooste joins Wallaby Filipo Daugunu as the centre pairing.

Glen Vaihu starts on one wing with former SVNS Series star Darby Lancaster on the other. As mentioned, Kellaway is of course the fullback to take on the Australian powerhouse.

This match is scheduled to get underway at 7:35 pm AST on Friday night.

Melbourne Rebels to take on ACT Brumbies

1. Isaac Kailea
2. Jordan Uelese
3. Sam Talakai
4. Angelo Smith
5. Josh Canham
6. Rob Leota (c)
7. Brad Wilkin
8. Vaiolinil Ekuasi
9. Ryan Louwrens
10. Jake Strachan
11. Glen Vaihu
12. Nick Jooste
13. Filipo Daugunu
14. Darby Lancaster
15. Andrew Kellaway

Replacements

16. Ethan Dobbins
17. Matt Gibbon
18. Taniela Tupou
19. Luka Callan*
20. Maciu Nabolakasi
21. Tuaiana Taii Tualima
22. James Tuttle
23. Mason Gordon

*Denotes Melbourne Rebels debut