Rawlinson named skipper for Saints trip

Greg Rawlinson has been named captain as Worcester Warriors explode into Guinness Premiership action with a clash against newly promoted Northampton Saints on Sunday (kick-off 1.30pm).

New Zealand international Rawlinson leads the side in the absence of the injured Pat Sanderson (quad) as Worcester look to make a winning start to the 2008/09 campaign at Franklin’s Gardens.

Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock has named a powerful line-up for the season opener with a number of players handed Guinness Premiership debuts for the club.


Australian international full back Chris Latham will make his first English top-flight appearance and is joined in the back division by new fly half Matthew Jones.


Ruddock pairs Miles Benjamin and Rico Gear on the wings with Marcel Garvey (hip) ruled out of the televised game.


Netani Talei, Tom Wood and Kai Horstmann play in the back row with Sanderson ruled out and rated as doubtful for the clash with London Wasps next weekend. England Sevens ace James Collins is named on the replacements bench.


“We’re disappointed to lose our captain as he is an inspirational figure,” said Ruddock. “However, it’s a long season and there is now an opportunity for other very talented players in his absence.


“Even without Pat it’s a very strong back row for the Northampton game with players like Tom Wood, Netani Talei and Kai Horstmann who all featured regularly last season and have all performed to a very high level.


“A leadership group that has been developed at Warriors also means we are better prepared for a situation like this where our captain is unable to start. Greg Rawlinson has been a significant figure in this group for some time and we’ve no doubt that he will deliver strong leadership on the field and continue the high standards we set in that area.


“All the players are looking forward to the Northampton game and really making a positive start to the season in front of the cameras.”


Warriors v Northampton Saints


15 Chris Latham
14 Rico Gear
13 Dale Rasmussen
12 Sam Tuitupou
11 Miles Benjamin
10 Matthew Jones
9 Matt Powell


1 Matt Mullan
2 Aleki Lutui
3 Tevita Taumoepeau
4 Greg Rawlinson (c)
5 Craig Gillies
6 Netani Talei
7 Tom Wood
8 Kai Horstmann


16 Chris Horsman
17 Chris Fortey
18 Will Bowley
19 James Collins
20 Ryan Powell
21 Loki Crichton
22 Chris Pennell

* Have you got your ticket to the big match at Franklin’s Gardens? If not, call the Northampton Box Office on 01604 581000 or visit them online to get your spot at the Guinness Premiership opener! The Box Office at Saints will be open between 9am and 12noon on Saturday.


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