Lopeti Timani has been declared fit to return to play following a knee injury which has seen him sidelined for nearly two months.
The powerful backrow-forward, who can also play at lock, will most likely return via the Dewar Shield before looking to add to his maiden Rebels cap against the Western Force in Round 2.
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More good news for the Melbourne team is that scrumhalf Nic Stirzaker’s injury is not as serious as first feared, he remains likely to feature following the June international window.
“Nic had an arthroscopy last week to investigate the severity of the ankle injury he suffered against the Sharks,” Rebels’ Head of Athletic Performance Bryce Cavanagh said.
“It was a really positive outcome, and we’re hopeful he will feature later this season; at first, we thought he could be out for up to triple the length of time.”
The Rebels have moved to cover Stirzaker’s absence in the interim, signing Warringah scrumhalf Josh Holmes to provide scrumhalf cover on a short term contract.
Prop Toby Smith will again undergo tests on a shoulder injury, after missing the last two games despite being close to selection.
Male Sau and Shota Horie are unavailable for selection this week following their departure for crucial Rugby World Cup Qualifiers with Japan.