Talismanic back row forward Pat Sanderson is set to make his comeback from injury when Worcester Warriors tackle Harlequins in the EDF Energy Cup at Sixways Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 3pm).
Sanderson has been ruled out of action since the end of August when he injured his leg in the pre-season friendly with Ulster at Ravenhill. But he has now been named among the replacements for the final pool stage clash.
Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock makes three changes to the starting line-up that lost out to Ospreys last weekend.
New Zealand wing Rico Gear has recovered from injury to take his place in the backline and Matt Powell is named at scrum half.
Young lock Graham Kitchener is called-up into the second row and will play alongside Greg Rawlinson. Former Australian international full back Chris Latham will skipper the side.
Hooker Chris Fortey and utility back Loki Crichton are both declared fit and take their place on the bench.
“It’s great to see our inspirational skipper Pat Sanderson back in the mix after injury,” said Ruddock.
“There’s no doubt we have missed his leadership talents and hopefully he will get through the game without any further problems and he can lead the team against Sale Sharks in our next Guinness Premiership game.”
Warriors v Harlequins
15 Chris Latham (c)
14 Rico Gear
13 Alex Grove
12 Sam Tuitupou
11 Chris Pennell
10 Matthew Jones
9 Matt Powell
1 Matt Mullan
2 Aleki Lutui
3 Tevita Taumoepeau
4 Greg Rawlinson
5 Graham Kitchener
6 Matt Cox
7 Jake Abbott
8 Netani Talei
16 Darren Morris
17 Chris Fortey
18 Craig Gillies
19 Pat Sanderson
20 Ryan Powell
21 Loki Crichton
22 Charlie Fellows