A showdown with Super Rugby heavyweights the Lions could deliver Wallabies hooker Tolu Latu his first start of the season in a NSW jersey.

Latu made three Test appearances for Australia against Ireland in June but has been stuck behind the uncapped Damien Fitzpatrick at the Waratahs as the coaches favour his teammate's mobility over Latu's scrummaging skills.

Pure joy: Tolu Latu, left, and Sekope Kepu embrace after the Waratahs booked their place in the Super Rugby semi-finals. Credit:AAP

That could be about to change after the Waratahs' fightback win over the Highlanders at Allianz Stadium on Saturday. Latu's entry into the game for the second half immediately beefed up the home side's breakdown and scrum, allowing them to muscle their way back into the game and strike when the Highlanders went down a man.

NSW coach Daryl Gibson, speaking after the Waratahs win but before the Lions and Jaguares had met in the fourth quarter-final, said he would consider swapping the starting duties for the team's upcoming semi-final against the Lions at Ellis Park.