England and Lions star Tom Curry returns to Sale Sharks as Alex Sanderson makes just one change to his side to face Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate in round 13 of the Gallagher Premiership tomorrow night (Kick-off 7:45pm – live on BT Sport).
Tom Curry replaces brother Ben in the only alteration to the Sharks side which recorded an emphatic victory over Wasps at the AJ Bell last weekend as the Sharks Director of Rugby opts for consistency in selection against the Bears.
An unchanged selection of Bevan Rodd, Ewan Ashman and Nick Schonert make up the Sale front-row on Friday, while Jean-Luc du Preez and Lood de Jager provide an imposing partnership in the second-row.
Jono Ross captains the side from his usual position of blindside flanker, and Tom Curry slots in at openside. Daniel du Preez completes the Sharks pack at number 8.
Following an impressive performance at the AJ Bell Stadium in round 12, Will Cliff retains the number nine shirt and links up with Bristol-bound AJ MacGinty at half-back tomorrow.
The pair are backed up by plenty of South African prowess in the midfield as Rohan Janse van Rensburg and Robert du Preez combine to provide both precision and power in the Sale back line.
Marland Yarde, Byron McGuigan and Luke James make up an unchanged back three.
Tommy Taylor, Simon McIntyre and Coenie Oosthuizen all act as front-row cover this weekend, whilst JP du Preez returns alongside Ben Curry to offer further forward cover on Friday.
Gus Warr, Sam James and Simon Hammersley cover the backs.
