Berliner Tageblatt - Waratahs primed for physical Moana clash in front of Prince Harry

New Zealand-based Moana said on Wednesday it was no longer financially viable and would fold at the end of the season unless new owners are found.

McKellar said he was not worried about the Waratahs bearing the brunt of a team with a point to prove in Sydney.

"I feel for the players and the coaches and the staff there," he said.

"That would be tough, a team that's worked really hard to build a pretty significant culture within their group and the people that they represent.

"But our focus is just getting our own stuff right and getting our own ship in order.

"So no, there's been zero chat amongst the group around Pasifika and their unfortunate situation."

Moana were launched in 2022 to showcase talent from Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands.

They have struggled on and off the field, losing seven from eight this season, but have a good record against the Waratahs, winning their last three.

McKellar, whose team were hammered by the Waikato Chiefs in their last game to leave them languishing outside the playoff places, said he was anticipating a physical encounter.

"They're big, powerful men who have got the ability to be really dangerous off turnover ball and can go front door or they can go the back door," he said.

"We need to get our game right, but make sure we front up and are ready for what's going to be a really physical contest."

Of note, back-rower Angus Scott-Young will start for the first time after arriving at the Waratahs in November from English side Northampton Saints.

The match will be played in front of Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle.

They are being hosted by Rugby Australia boss Phil Waugh.

"Harry loves his rugby and we are looking forward to hosting him and Meghan at Friday night's game," Waugh told reporters.

The pair are on a four-day Australia visit to attend business and charity events.

G.Schulte--BTB