Bath Rugby’s Louw to make 100th appearance against Saracens

Francois Louw will make his 100th appearance for Bath Rugby against Saracens at Allianz Park on Sunday, kick-off 15:00.

The South African international, who joined the Club in 2011, will co-captain the team at openside flanker with Tom Ellis and Taulupe Faletau completing the back row.

Following his injury absence, Matt Banahan makes a welcome return to action to take his place on the left wing, whilst Bath’s top try scorer Semesa Rokoduguni continues on the right wing.

Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph, who helped guide England to the RBS 6 Nations title return to the starting line-up at fullback and outside centre respectively. Joseph will be joined in the midfield by Ben Tapuai, with the Australian at inside centre.

George Ford, another key figure in England’s successful campaign will be looking to assert his authority on the game at fly-half, with the influential Kahn Fotuali’i completing the half-back pairing.

Nathan Catt, Ross Batty and Max Lahiff will form the front row against the reigning Aviva Premiership Champions and will be supported by Luke Charteris and Charlie Ewels, who form the second row partnership.

In his second spell with the Club, hooker Chris Brooker could make his first appearance from the replacements since joining on loan from Bristol Rugby.

Unavailable for selection: Dave Attwood, Nick Auterac, Aled Brew, Harry Davies, Levi Douglas, Tom Dunn, Robbie Fruean, Matt Garvey, Rhys Priestland, Henry Thomas, Michael van Vuuren, Jack Walker, Jeff Williams

Bath Rugby team to face Saracens

15. Anthony Watson

14. Semesa Rokoduguni

13. Jonathan Joseph

12. Ben Tapuai

11. Matt Banahan

10. George Ford (co-capt)

9. Kahn Fotuali’i

1. Nathan Catt

2. Ross Batty

3. Max Lahiff

4. Charlie Ewels