Aussie Ma’afu to make first start for Saints in Heineken Cup clash at Castres
Salesi Ma’afu makes his first start for Saints in their Heineken Cup clash at Castres in France tomorrow (Sat, ko 3.40pm).
The Australian has been selected at tight head prop, and is one of five changes to the side which drew 19-19 at Leicester Tigers in the Aviva Premiership last weekend.
Christian Day has recovered from injury and returns to the starting line-up, while also recalled are Ken Pisi, Kahn Fotuali’i and Calum Clark.
Tom Mercey, Samu Manoa, Phil Dowson, Lee Dickson and Jamie Elliott all drop to the bench.
Luther Burrell, who was seen as a doubt after being forced off with a shoulder problem during the Welford Road stalemate, has been declared fit and starts at centre.
Saints team to play Castres, Heineken Cup Round 1; Stade Pierre Antoine, Saturday, October 12, 2013, Kick off 3:40pm: Ben Foden; Ken Pisi, George Pisi, Luther Burrell, George North; Stephen Myler, Kahn Fotuali’i; Alex Corbisiero, Dylan Hartley, Salesi Ma’afu, Courtney Lawes, Christian Day, Tom Wood, Calum Clark, Sam Dickinson.
Replacements: Mike Haywood, Alex Waller, Tom Mercey, Samu Manoa, Phil Dowson, Lee Dickson, James Wilson, Jamie Elliott