Exiles name side for trip to SU Agen

Declan Kidney has confirmed the squad to travel to SU Agen tomorrow in Round 1 of the European Rugby Challenge Cup (kick-off 3pm local time).

Jack Cooke has been named captain once again, after making his captaincy debut in the latter end of the 2019/20 season.

In the front row, Will Goodrick-Clarke, Matt Cornish and Lovejoy Chawatama combine, with Andrei Mahu and Chunya Munga forming the second-row partnership.

Steve Mafi is given his first start since returning from injury and wears the 6 jersey, while captain Jack Cooke starts at openside flanker. Albert Tuisue returns from international duty with Fiji and completes the pack at number 8.

Ben Meehan is set to link up with Theo Brophy Clews in the half-backs, and Phil Cokanasiga creates a new-look combination in the centres with Billy Meakes.

Ollie Hassell-Collins and James Stokes start on either wing, with Tom Parton starting from fullback.

Matt Cornish and Chunya Munga are set for their European debut, with Josh Smart ready to make his from the replacements.

Luke Green and Will Joseph will make their club debuts if required from the bench.

“We are looking forward to playing against SU Agen and Pau as it pits you against different styles and challenges that are in the Premiership” said Declan Kidney, Director of Rugby.

“It’s exciting to be getting our European campaign underway against SU Agen this weekend as we look to get off to a good start in the Challenge Cup.”

 

London Irish:

15 Tom Parton, 14 James Stokes, 13 Billy Meakes, 12 Phil Cokanasiga, 11 Ollie Hassell-Collins, 10 Theo Brophy Clews, 9 Ben Meehan, 1 Will Goodrick-Clarke, 2 Matt Cornish, 3 Lovejoy Chawatama, 4 Andrei Mahu, 5 Chunya Munga, 6 Steve Mafi, 7 Jack Cooke (c), 8 Albert Tuisue.

Replacements:
16 Motu Matu’u, 17 Harry Elrington, 18 Luke Green, 19 Isaac Curtis-Harris, 20 Josh Smart, 21 Rory Brand, 22 Jacob Atkins, 23 Will Joseph