Third-string openside flanker Chris Alcock has been promoted to play just his second run on game for injury-hit NSW Waratahs in Saturday's Super Rugby clash with the Lions.

Pat McCutcheon, who had been filling in at No.7 for injured skipper Phil Waugh, has been ruled out of the Sydney Football Stadium match with an ankle problem.

Eastwood club captain and loose forward Hugh Perrett has been called onto the bench in another change to the Waratahs squad that beat the Western Force in their last match 11 days ago.

As expected, Wallabies hooker Tatafu-Polota-Nau returns to add power and aggression after resting for concussion.

Alcock was delighted to get the call-up and relished a tough battle against the Lions, who are coming last but showed plenty of spirit in their win over the Brumbies last weekend.

NSW team (15-1): Kurtley Beale, Lachie Turner, Ryan Cross, Tom Carter, Sosene Anesi, Berrick Barnes, Luke Burgess, Ben Mowen, Chris Alcock, Dave Dennis, Sitaleki Timani, Dean Mumm (capt), Sekope Kepu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson. Res: Damien Fitzpatrick, Al Baxter, Kane Douglas, Hugh Perrett, Brendan McKibbin, Daniel Halangahu, Tom Kingston.

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