Raffi returns for Sale against Falcons

Nick Schonert returns alongside England Internationals Bevan Rodd and Raffi Quirke, as Gareth Harris names an experienced side to face Newcastle Falcons in round three of the Premiership Rugby Cup.

The stand-in Director of Rugby deploys an accomplished squad to travel to Kingston Park as the Sharks look to ramp up preparations ahead of the Gallagher Premiership’s return next weekend.

In the pack, Tadgh McElroy keeps his place at hooker and alongside the return of Rodd, the Sale front row is bolstered by the fit-again Nick Schonert, who makes his first start in over 10 months.

Ben Bamber and Ernst van Rhyn form a reliable second row, whilst Sam Dugdale lines up alongside Jean-Luc and Daniel du Preez to play alongside eachother for the first time this season.

The electric Raffi Quirke makes a long-awaited return to the Sharks squad alongside fellow academy graduate Tom Curtis, who keeps the captain’s armband after two wins from two so far in the cup. Sam Bedlow and Luke James offer options for Curtis in the centres.

Academy winger Obi Ene will be looking to back up an incredible four-try performance against Caldy in round two as the highly rated prospect is named in the Sharks’ back three alongside England U20’s ace Alex Wills and the experienced Will Addison.

On the bench, Sale opt for a 6-2 split with Harry Thompson, Tumy Onasanya and James Harper named as front-row replacements, with Tom Burrow, Rouban Birch and Tristan Woodman offering further forward cover. Nye Thomas and Joe Bedlow cover the backs.

Sale Sharks Starting XV:

15. Will Addison, 14. Obi Ene, 13. Luke James, 12. Sam Bedlow, 11. Alex Wills, 10. Tom Curtis (c), 9. Raffi Quirke; 1. Bevan Rodd, 2. Tadgh McElroy, 3. Nick Schonert, 4. Ernst van Rhyn, 5. Ben Bamber, 6. Jean-Luc du Preez, 7. Sam Dugdale, 8. Daniel du Preez

Replacements:

16. Harry Thompson, 17. Tumy Onasanya, 18. James Harper, 19. Tom Burrow, 20. Rouban Birch, 21. Nye Thomas, 22. Joe Bedlow, 23. Tristan Woodman.