Match preview

8 March 2013, 11:59am

Bath Rugby name side for LV= Cup semi-final

Bath Rugby have named a powerful starting side with just three changes to that which beat Gloucester at the Rec last weekend for tomorrow's LV= Cup semi-final clash against Harlequins, kick-off 12.15.

All three changes come in the front row, with Nathan Catt and Samoan international Anthony Perenise coming in for Paul James and David Wilson, who are both involved in the RBS 6 Nations this weekend, and Ross Batty replacing the injured Rob Webber at hooker.

Last week's Aviva Premiership Man of the Match Dominic Day is again selected alongside Dave Attwood in a heavyweight lock pairing, with Francois Louw leading the side from the blindside, Carl Fearns on the openside and Ben Skirving completing the pack from the base of the scrum.

Tom Heathcote, nominated once again for the LV= Breakthrough Player Award, is partnered by 98 times capped Peter Stringer in the half-backs, whilst Tom Biggs and Horacio Agulla are named out wide on the wings. Kyle Eastmond and Matt Banahan continue to build their impressive partnership in the midfield, with Nick Abendanon completing the line-up.

On the bench, there is a return from injury for lock and Club captain Stuart Hooper, and Argentinian international hooker Eusebio Guinazu could make his first appearance in the blue, black and white if called upon.

Bath Rugby side to face Harlequins

15. Nick Abendanon
14. Horacio Agulla
13. Matt Banahan
12. Kyle Eastmond
11. Tom Biggs
10. Tom Heathcote
9. Peter Stringer
1. Nathan Catt
2. Ross Batty
3. Anthony Perenise
4. Dominic Day
5. Dave Attwood
6. Francois Louw ( c )
7. Carl Fearns
8. Ben Skirving

Replacements

16. Eusebio Guinazu
17. Charlie Beech
18. Kane Palma-Newport
19. Stuart Hooper
20. Nick Koster
21. Michael Classens
22. Sam Vesty
23. Semesa Rokoduguni