INFLUENTIAL lock James Percival is poised to make his first appearance for more than half a year as Worcester Warriors take on Leicester Tigers in the LV= Cup at Sixways tomorrow (Friday, 7.45pm).
A torn bicep sustained in pre-season ruled the 30-year-old out for the start of the campaign before an ankle injury set back his return.
But director of rugby Dean Ryan, who has yet to see the second row in action, has decided to bring Percival back ahead of the resumption of the Aviva Premiership.
New recruit Andy Symons is set to make his full Warriors debut after coming off the bench during last week’s victory over Cardiff Blues, while Ravai Fatiaki will play on the wing following his return from injury.
Other notable changes sees Mariano Galarza come back into the side after being released by Argentina, while Leonardo Senatore moves in the other direction and Paul Warwick replaces Ignacio Mieres at fly half.
As well as looking to back up last week’s win, Ryan was also keen to see how his youngsters perform.
“We’re not losing sight of the role the LV= Cup plays for us and everybody else and we’ve got another opportunity to go again this week,” he said.
“I think it will be a big step up. I’m sure Leicester will have a mix of youngsters and experience.
“Richard Cockerill has done a good job in the LV= Cup. He has always allowed his youngsters to play and stayed with them when they’ve been successful.
“It will be a good test for us to see the youngsters again in a different light against a tougher opposition.”
Warriors’ side to face Leicester Tigers: Howard. Stephenson, Stelling, Symons, Fatiaki, Warwick, Arr, Fainga’anuku, Brooker, O’Donnell, Percival, Galarza, Betty, Abbott, Thomas (C)
Replacements: Shervington, Becasseau, Murray, Scotland-Williamson, de Carpentier, de Cothi, Mieres, Hammond