Due to structural damage at the Swansea.com Stadium caused by Storm Darragh, the Llanelli-based venue was selected as the most suitable option although St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field had been considered as alternative venues.
Wales front-row duo Gareth Thomas and Dewi Lake also return to the fold, with Ben Warren lining up at tight head to complete the front three.
James Fender partners Will Greatbanks at lock. Tristan Davies lines up at six, Harri Deaves takes up the other flank with Justin Tipuric unavailable and Morgan starts at eight.
Kieran Hardy continues at scrum half with Owen Williams in the 10 jersey for the second week in succession. Keiran Williams partners Owen Watkin in the centre.
In the back three, Jack Walsh starts at full back, with Dan Kasende and Keelan Giles starting on the wings.
Head coach Toby Booth said:
“Europe has always been an important focus for us. We’ve had some strong campaigns in the Investec Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup in recent years and have had some memorable wins on the way.
“This game is a great opportunity for us to build some momentum as we look ahead to the rest of the season.”
Ospreys XV to face Emirates Lions:
15. Jack Walsh, 14. Dan Kasende, 13. Owen Watkin, 12. Keiran Williams, 11. Keelan Giles,
10. Owen Williams, 9. Kieran Hardy
1. Gareth Thomas, 2. Dewi Lake, 3. Ben Warren, 4. Will Greatbanks, 5. James Fender, 6. Tristan Davies, 7. Harri Deaves, 8. Jac Morgan (captain).
Replacements:
16. Sam Parry, 17. Steffan Thomas, 18. Tom Botha, 19. Lewis Jones, 20. Morgan Morris, 21. Luke Davies, 22. Dan Edwards, 23. Iestyn Hopkins.
[Lead image: Ospreys Rugby]
