Match preview

21 March 2013, 12:00pm

Bath Rugby change four for Sale challenge

Bath Rugby have made four changes to the side that faced Harlequins two weeks ago, as they prepare for the away Aviva Premiership match against Sale Sharks on Friday night, kick-off 20.00.

All four changes come in the pack. Test props Paul James and David Wilson return to the front row following the culmination of the RBS 6 Nations Championship, where they are joined by another international in hooker Rob Webber who comes back into the starting line-up.

Club captain Stuart Hooper also returns to the starting line-up, with Dominic Day moving to the bench. Hooper partners Dave Attwood, who it was announced this week had extended his contract with the Club, in the second row. The abrasive pairing of Francois Louw and Carl Fearns continue on the flanks, with Ben Skirving again taking his place at the base of the scrum.

Peter Stringer, whose loan deal with Bath will now run until the end of the season, and Tom Heathcote continue to build their half-back partnership, with the backline unchanged. Kyle Eastmond and Matt Banahan link up in the centres once more, whilst Tom Biggs and Horacio Agulla provide speed, agility and power out wide. Nick Abendanon completes the line-up at full-back.

Bath Rugby are back in action at the Recreation Ground next Saturday as we host London Welsh. Tickets are available now, so contact the Ticket Office on 0844 448 1865 today to secure your tickets for this vital game.

Bath Rugby side to face Sale Sharks:

15. Nick Abendanon
14. Horacio Agulla
13. Matt Banahan
12. Kyle Eastmond
11. Tom Biggs
10. Tom Heathcote
9. Peter Stringer
1. Paul James
2. Rob Webber
3. David Wilson
4. Stuart Hooper ( c )
5. Dave Attwood
6. Francois Louw 
7. Carl Fearns
8. Ben Skirving

Replacements

16. Ross Batty
17. Nathan Catt
18. Anthony Perenise
19. Dominic Day
20. Mat Gilbert
21. Michael Classens
22. Ollie Devoto
23. Semesa Rokoduguni