Exiles named to play Grenoble

Brian Smith has returned to his tried and tested formation ahead of tomorrow evening’s European Challenge Cup fixture against Grenoble.

Following a 70 – 14 victory over Rovigo, Smith has recalled many of the players who were rested for the game following a tough opening block of Aviva Premiership fixtures.

Tom Court, David Paice and Halani Aulika make up the front row, with Kieran Low, who was named in the Scotland squad this week, in the second row alongside Jebb Sinclair.

The back row features Luke Narraway alongside Blair Cowan, who was also named in the Scottish squad earlier in the week, and Ofisa Treviranus, who came through the Rovigo game unscathed after his return from injury.

Tomás O’Leary retains his place at nine with Chris Noakes returning at fly half. Shane Geraghty and Fergus Mulchrone reunite to continue their partnership in the midfield and Alex Lewington, James Short and Andrew Fenby make up the back three.

After an impressive debut last week Eoin Griffin is given another chance to impress, this time off the bench, and Topsy Ojo will hope to back up his hat trick should he get onto the field.

London Irish Director of Rugby, Brian Smith said: “We have a big task facing us tomorrow evening. Grenoble are performing well in the Top 14 and are so far unbeaten at home. We have rotated the squad again this week for what we expect to be a physical contest and we have prepared accordingly for that.”

London Irish side to face Grenoble:

15. Andrew Fenby; 14. Alex Lewington; 13. Fergus Mulchrone; 12. Shane Geraghty* (Captain); 11. James Short; 10. Chris Noakes; 9. Tomás O’Leary*; 1. Tom Court*; 2. David Paice*; 3. Halani Aulika*; 4. Kieran Low; 5. Jebb Sinclair*; 6. Luke Narraway*; 7. Blair Cowan*; 8. Ofisa Treviranus*

Replacements: 16. Jimmy Stevens; 17. Matt Parr; 18. Leo Halavatau; 19. Dan Leo*; 20. Conor Gilsenan; 21. Darren Allinson; 22. Eoin Griffin; 23. Topsy Ojo*

*Denotes International