Smith backs Smith

Rookie Parramatta halfback Tim Smith will make his first grade debut on Saturday week when the Eels play their NRL season opener against Wests Tigers at Telstra Stadium.

Coach Brian Smith has trialled former Warriors hooker P.J. Marsh and 20-year-old Smith in the problematic halfback position but elected to run with the rookie.

Former Australian schoolboy Smith will partner John Morris in the halves.

Marsh is expected to be used as an attacking weapon on the bench, replacing starting No.9 and key Eels recruit Mark Riddell during the match.

Former North Queensland back-rower Glenn Morrison will start at lock, with Daniel Wagon going into the centres and Luke Burt pushed out to the wing.

Michael Vella is missing from the side and Parramatta's gun international back-rower Nathan Hindmarsh (back) will also miss the season kick-off.

Eels squad: Wade McKinnon, Luke Burt, Daniel Wagon, Timana Tahu, Eric Grothe, John Morris, Tim Smith, Paul Stringer, Mark Riddell, Adam Peek, Chad Robinson, Nathan Cayless (capt), Glenn Morrison.

Interchange: PJ Marsh, Dean Widders, Nathan Hindmarsh, Aaron Cannings, Matt Petersen, Henry Perenara (two to be omitted).