The 25-year-old van Vuuren comes in at full back for the rested Rhys Williams and Namibian World Cup star Senekal starts in the second row after John Tait was ruled out with a back strain. Head coach David Young said,
“Donavan arrived a fortnight ago and Heino joined us last Thursday. Both have worked hard in training this week and we are taking the first opportunity to give them a game. I am also mindful that players such as Rhys have been ever-present so far this season and need a break to re-charge their batteries.”
Tait is recovering from a sprained back sustained against Borders last Friday. Cardiff’s other changes see Gary Powell coming in at tight-head prop and Nick Walne returning to the wing.
Young added, “These were fairly straightforward selections. With three international wings to choose from, it is Craig Morgan’s turn to be rested and for Walne to start. At prop I have been very pleased with the commitment and hard work of Ken Fourie and now Powell gets his first start after three matches on the bench. “Andrew Lewis has had a minor hip problem but hopes to be fit for replacement duty and Peter Rogers was also not available this week because of a back injury.”
Other players unavailable for selection were Spencer John (back), Dean Dewdney (back spasms), Emyr Lewis (sternum), Robin Sowden-Taylor (knee) and Jim Brownrigg (shoulder).
Team: Donavan van Vuuren; Nick Walne, Jamie Robinson, Pieter Muller, Anthony Sullivan; Iestyn Harris, Ryan Powell; Tim Payne, Greg Woods, Gary Powell, Heino Senekal, Adam Jones, Rob Appleyard, Dan Baugh, Martyn Williams (captain)
Replacements: Kenneth Fourie, Andrew Lewis, Luke Tait, Dan McShane, Richard Smith, Nick Robinson, Rhys
Williams
Referee: Iain Ramage (Scotland)
