With head coach Toby Booth revealing in yesterday’s media press conference that Nicky Smith would be sidelined for the match, Thomas’ would be a welcome addition in the front row. The Wales loosehead is joined with Sam Parry who makes his 150th appearance for the region at hooker and Tom Botha at three.
Adam Beard is back to partner Rhys Davies at lock. Utility man James Ratti moves to six, whilst captain Justin Tipuric will be on the other flank. Morgan Morris is Booth’s preferred choice at eight, whilst there is no place for Morgan Morse in the 23 man squad.
Reuben Morgan-Williams continues at scrum half, where he is partnered at half-back once again with Owen Williams at ten. Keiran Williams illness in the week means he is only fit for a place on the bench, with Owen Watkin coming back in at inside centre, Evardi Boshoff his midfield partner at 13.
In the back three, without injured duo Iestyn Hopkins and Alex Cuthbert, Jack Walsh comes in at full-back with the wings occupied by Keelan Giles and Luke Morgan.
Max Nagy returns to the bench and will be looking to make an impression after along injury lay-off if introduced later in the match.
Ospreys starting XV
15. Jack Walsh, 14. Luke Morgan, 13. Evardi Boshoff ,12. Owen Watkin, 11. Keelan Giles,
10. Owen Williams, 9. Reuben Morgan-Williams
1. Gareth Thomas, 2. Sam Parry, 3. Tom Botha, 4. Rhys Davies, 5. Adam Beard, 6. James Ratti,
7. Justin Tipuric (captain), 8. Morgan Morris.
Replacements:
16. Lewis Lloyd, 17. Garyn Phillips,18. Ben Warren,19. Huw Sutton, 20. Harri Deaves,
21. Luke Davies, 22. Max Nagy , 23. Kieran Williams .
[Lead image: Ospreys Rugby]
