Taulupe Faletau returns to start for Bath Rugby tomorrow as they take on Sale Sharks in the Aviva Premiership at the Recreation Ground, kick-off 14:30.

The British and Irish Lion takes his place a number eight, in a dynamic back row that features Zach Mercer and Josh Bayliss on the flanks.

Beno Obano and Henry Thomas also return to the starting line-up at loosehead and tighthead prop respectively, with Ross Batty continuing at hooker. Captain Matt Garvey switches to lock, where he will partner Elliott Stooke in the engine room.

James Wilson switches from fullback to fly-half, joining Kahn Fotuali’i to form the half-back combination. Cooper Vuna, who marked his Club debut with a try last week continues on the left wing, with Aled Brew out wide on the right. Will Hurrell and Ben Tapuai link-up in the midfield once more, with Darren Atkins coming in to the starting line-up at fullback.  

Tom Homer could mark his return to first team action, with the fullback named among the replacements.

Josh Lewis is unavailable for selection having picked up a knock in training.

Tickets are still available for the game, as Bath look to close in on the top four – click here, or ring the Bath Rugby Ticket Office on 0844 448 1865 to be there to cheer the team on.

Bath Rugby team to face Sale Sharks

15. Darren Atkins

14. Aled Brew

13. Will Hurrell

12. Ben Tapuai

11. Cooper Vuna

10. James Wilson

9. Kahn Fotuali’i

1. Beno Obano

2. Ross Batty

3. Henry Thomas

4. Matt Garvey (c)

5. Elliott Stooke

6. Zach Mercer

7. Josh Bayliss

8. Taulupe Faletau

Replacements

16. Michael van Vuuren

17. Lucas Noguera

18. Max Lahiff

19. Luke Charteris

20. James Phillips

21. Chris Cook

22. Jack Wilson

23. Tom Homer