Bath United have named a strong side to face Bristol Bears A in the opening round of the Premiership Rugby Shield at Clifton Rugby Club, kick-off 13:00.

Josh Bayliss will captain the United side as he starts in an exciting back row alongside Tom Ellis and Miles Reid. Charlie Ewels and Levi Douglas form an experienced second row pairing, with a front row trio of Arthur Cordwell, Michael van Vuuren and Sam Nixon, completing the pack.

New signing Alex Davies starts at scrum-half, with Tom de Glanville looking to pull the strings at fly-half. Max Clark and Max Wright start at inside and outside centre respectively, with Ruaridh McConnochie making his debut in the Blue, Black and White on the left wing.

Levi Davis takes his place on the right wing, fresh from scoring in last week’s pre-season friendly victory against Scarlets, with Darren Atkins completing the backline at full-back. 

Bath United team to face Bristol Bears A

1. Arthur Cordwell 

2. Michael van Vuuren 

3. Sam Nixon 

4. Levi Douglas 

5. Charlie Ewels 

6. Tom Ellis 

7. Josh Bayliss (c) 

8. Miles Reid 

9 Alex Davies 

10. Tom de Glanville 

11. Ruaridh McConnochie 

12. Max Clark 

13. Max Wright 

14. Levi Davis 

15. Darren Atkins 

Replacements

16. Tom Doughty

17. Geraud Clermont

18. Kieran Verden

19. Rhys Davies

20. Paul Grant

21. Jack Davies  

22. Will Butt

23. Will Partington

For those attending the game, entry is free.