Sydney - The Waratahs have named a new-look halfback pairing for their must-win Super Rugby clash against the Sharks at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 06:35.

Stand-in captain Daniel Halangahu has been moved back to the bench, with Berrick Barnes his replacement at flyhalf. Prop Benn Robinson named as skipper for the first time in his career.

Partnering Barnes is Brendan McKibbin, who has been promoted to No 9 at the expense of South African import Sarel Pretorius, who will be injected as a replacement player.

Wycliff Palu returns from a hamstring injury at No 8, while giant brothers Sitaleki and Lopeti Timani will play their first match together in Waratahs colours and provide an increased physical presence for the Waratahs against the Durban-based side.

The freshen-up comes in the wake of the Waratahs' shock 21-20 loss to the Western Force last week as they attempt to avoid their worst-ever start to a Super Rugby season against a Sharks team brimming with confidence.

Coach Michael Foley said the time was right to move Wallabies playmaker Barnes into the No 10 jersey, with the move also elevating Tom Carter to the starting side at inside centre.

Foley said Pretorius was demoted to the bench more as a rotation move after a taxing start to the season, and to also take advantage of the added bonus of McKibbin's goalkicking.

Teams:

Waratahs:

15 Bernard Foley, 14 Tom Kingston, 13 Rob Horne, 12 Tom Carter 11 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 10 Berrick Barnes, 9 Brendan McKibbin, 8 Wycliff Palu, 7 Chris Alcock, 6 Dave Dennis, 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Dean Mumm, 3 Sekope Kepu, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Benn Robinson (captain)

Substitutes (from): John Ulugia, Paddy Ryan, Sitaleki Timani, Lopeti Timani, Jono Jenkins, Sarel Pretorius, Daniel Halangahu, Peter Betham, Brackin Kauraria-Henry

Sharks:

TBA