WORCESTER Warriors welcome Francois Hougaard back to the starting line-up for Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership clash with Newcastle Falcons at Sixways (kick-off 3pm).
The scrum-half recovers from a rib knock to start alongside Duncan Weir as Warriors go in search of their first win of the season.
Elsewhere, Simon Kerrod starts in the front row in place of the injured Nick Schonert (concussion), while Joe Taufete’e is handed his first start of the season at hooker in place of Niall Annett (illness).
Anton Bresler (groin) and Jack Singleton (neck) have recovered from injury and are named among the replacements for the clash.
Chris Pennell, Bryce Heem and Josh Adams form a potent back three while Francois Venter and Ryan Mills continue their midfield partnership.
Kerrod and Taufete’e join Callum Black in the front row while Pierce Phillips and Darren Barry keep their spots in the second row. Skipper GJ van Velze leads from the back row next to Sam Lewis and Marco Mama.
Gareth Milasinovich is added to the replacements off the back of an impressive showing for Worcester Cavaliers on Monday night in their win over Leicester Tigers.
Tickets for the match are available by clicking here, calling 01905 459309 or visiting the Ticket Office.
Warriors
15 Chris Pennell
14 Bryce Heem
13 Francois Venter
12 Ryan Mills
11 Josh Adams
10 Duncan Weir
9 Francois Hougaard
1 Callum Black
2 Joe Taufete’e
3 Simon Kerrod
4 Pierce Phillips
5 Darren Barry
6 Marco Mama
7 Sam Lewis
8 GJ van Velze (C)
Replacements
16 Jack Singleton
17 Ryan Bower
18 Gareth Milasinovich
19 Anton Bresler
20 Alafoti Faosiliva
21 Michael Heaney
22 Jono Lance
23 Ashley Beck