Dempsey and Jones return as Schickerling set for debut

Two of Glasgow Warriors’ Grand Final-winning starting lineup will make their first appearances of the 2024/25 campaign this weekend, after Jack Dempsey and Huw Jones were both named in the starting XV to take on Cardiff in round three of the BKT United Rugby Championship tomorrow night.

The pair are two of nine changes to the starting lineup for the club’s first visit to the Cardiff Arms Park since 2022, whilst summer signing Patrick Schickerling could make his competitive debut for Glasgow Warriors after being selected amongst the replacements for tomorrow night’s clash.

Another of Glasgow’s summer arrivals will make his first start for Franco Smith’s side in the front-row tomorrow night, as Rory Sutherland – who made his debut off the bench against Benetton last time out – joins Johnny Matthews and Sam Talakai at the coal face.

Alex Samuel comes into the starting lineup for the first time in 2024/25, partnering Scott Cummings in the engine room after the latter’s return from injury last weekend.

Dempsey’s return to action sees Matt Fagerson shift to the openside to accommodate his Scotland team-mate, with another Scotland international completing the back-row in the form of Gregor Brown.

Jamie Dobie starts at scrum-half for the third successive fixture, as Tom Jordan reverts to fly-half after an impressive outing at inside centre against Benetton last weekend.

Jones slots into the starting XV in the number 13 jersey, resuming his partnership with Sione Tuipulotu – who captains the side for the first time this season – in the midfield.

The back-three sees Josh McKay and Kyle Rowe retained after each playing a key role in the 42-10 win over Benetton, with Facundo Cordero coming in for Kyle Steyn on the wing to make his first appearance of the season.

Schickerling’s inclusion in the matchday squad could see the tight-head become the third prop this season to make his Glasgow Warriors debut, the former Exeter Chief having impressed in his pre-season outings for Smith’s men.

Gregor Hiddleston and Jamie Bhatti join Schickerling as the front-row cover, whilst last week’s starting second-rowers – Max Williamson and Richie Gray – both rotate to the bench for tomorrow night’s clash.

Euan Ferrie completes the cohort of six forwards selected amongst the replacements, with the back-line covered by Ben Afshar and Duncan Weir, the latter having been flawless from the tee after coming on at half-time last Friday.