Cape Town - Michael
Wells is set to start at No 8 when the Waratahs' Super Rugby
season kicks off after Jed Holloway was ruled out through injury.
Holloway, who was in fine form during the Waratahs' pre-season matches, is battling to overcome a hamstring injury and is almost certain to miss their opening clash against the Western Force in Sydney on Saturday, February 18.
And Waratahs head coach Daryl Gibson said Wells, who joined the Sydneysiders from the Brumbies in 2016, is now almost certain to start in the back row alongside flanks Michael Hooper and Jack Dempsey.
"Holloway is another one who is due around Round 2," Gibson told Fairfax Media.
"He's had hamstring issues over the last six weeks, so we've just figured them out.
"Wells performed very well against the Brumbies. He continues to impress in that position so I fully expect him to take the starting spot at the moment.
"I just like his attitude to the game. He's a tough, abrasive character and he's got an immense work rate. All those qualities and traits are something that we like and he's been an excellent addition to the team."