The South African makes his first start of the Gallagher Premiership season after guiding his country to a 36-34 victory over New Zealand in the Rugby Championship two weeks ago.

Louw will wear the number seven jersey, with Josh Bayliss and Paul Grant completing the back row. Charlie Ewels captains the side and will feature in the second row alongside Elliott Stooke, who made an impact off the bench in last weekend's victory over Northampton Saints.

In the front row, Jacques van Rooyen will make his first start in the Blue, Black and White at loosehead, with Jack Walker and Anthony Perenise at hooker and tighthead respectively.

Chris Cook and Rhys Priestland form the half-back pairing, whilst Max Clark returns to action to partner Max Wright in the midfield.

Tom Homer and Semesa Rokoduguni occupy the wing positions, with Darren Atkins continuing at full-back, as Bath Rugby face last season's Gallagher Premiership champions.

Bath Rugby team to face Saracens

15. Darren Atkins

14. Semesa Rokoduguni

13. Max Clark

12. Max Wright

11. Tom Homer

10. Rhys Priestland

9. Chris Cook

1. Jacques van Rooyen

2. Jack Walker

3. Anthony Perenise

4. Charlie Ewels (c)

5. Elliott Stooke

6. Josh Bayliss

7. Francois Louw

8. Paul Grant

Replacements

16. Michael van Vuuren

17. Lucas Noguera

18. Victor Delmas

19. Levi Douglas

20. Miles Reid

21. Max Green

22. Freddie Burns

23. Jackson Willison

Louw returns to face Saracens

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