Queensland skipper Berrick Barnes and fellow injured Wallabies back Peter Hynes have been named to play in Sunday's Super 14 clash against the Cheetahs at Suncorp Stadium.

Barnes (quad) and Hynes (knee) have been in doubt following injuries sustained in last weekend's 27-24 loss to the Stormers in Cape Town.

But Reds coach Phil Mooney on Thursday included the Test pair, plus veteran hooker Sean Hardman (ankle), in his starting side for their first home match of the season.

As expected, aggressive Wallabies forward Hugh McMeniman has also bolstered Queensland's pack as they look to notch a maiden victory for 2009.

McMeniman has returned from compassionate leave to replace Adam Byrnes in the second-row in one of two changes, with Ben Lucas swapping with Will Genia at halfback.

Lucas's superior goalkicking has helped get the nod after stand-in kicker Quade Cooper missed two pivotal first-half attempts against the Stormers.

The Cheetahs have never won on the road in 19 matches in Australasia but Mooney said they wouldn't be underestimated after two close losses to the Lions and Western Force.

"They're a side with a lot of ability that hasn't had much luck in starting the season - which is something we have in common," Mooney said.

"But if our players focus on doing the little things well for the whole game we have the speed and the talent to play a very entertaining and effective style of rugby."

Hynes' fitness has ensured Wallabies winger Digby Ioane has been retained at outside centre with Morgan Turinui (shoulder) facing a long stint on the sidelines.

Queensland: Mark McLinden, Brando Va'aulu, Digby Ioane, Berrick Barnes (capt), Peter Hynes, Quade Cooper, Ben Lucas; Leroy Houston, Daniel Braid, Scott Higginbotham, Hugh McMeniman, Van Humphries, Laurie Weeks, Sean Hardman, Greg Holmes. Res: Saia Faingaa, Dayna Edwards, Adam Byrnes, Tasi Luafutu, Will Genia, Anthony Faingaa, Blair Connor.

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