Queensland have lost veteran forwards Sean Hardman and Van Humphries in a major blow ahead of Friday night's Super 14 clash with the Crusaders at Suncorp Stadium.
Hooker Hardman has succumbed to an ankle injury he sustained in the 30-28 loss to NSW while second rower Humphries is suffering from a head knock.
Coach Ewen McKenzie has restructured his pack with skipper James Horwill moving from the back row to lock, giving teenager Jake Schatz a surprise start at blind-side flanker.
Saia Faingaa has been promoted from the bench to start at hooker while James Hanson is one of four new faces on the bench.
Among them are former Wallabies Greg Holmes (ribs) and Leroy Houston (knee) who have worked their way back from injuries.
McKenzie said Schatz, an uncontracted Academy player, had earned the opportunity after impressing in pre-season training and all three trial matches.
"Jake has shown plenty of promise and maturity in the pre-season," he said.
"We need to give these guys an opportunity and he gets his chance against some of the best in the business." AAP dg
