Exiles make four changes

London Irish have made four changes for Saturday's Parker Pen opener against Montauban.

In the forwards Paul Gustard replaces the injured Declan Danaher (back).

In the backs Ed Thrower takes over from Michael Horak at full back, Nick Greenstock replaces Geoff Appleford at outside centre, and Mark Mapletoft comes in at fly half in place of the injured Barry Everitt (hamstring).

Also unavailable for selection because of injury are Rob Hardwick (thumb), Kieran Roche (leg), Chris Sheasby (eye) and Ryan Strudwick (leg).

Looking forward to this weekend’s match, head coach, Gary Gold said: "When you play away in France you know you are in for a tough contest. All French teams want to do well in front of their home crowds. Montauban will be no different, they have a powerful and experienced pack with lively backs that will provide a stern test for us."

LONDON IRISH: 15. Ed Thrower; 14. Paul Sackey; 13. Nick Greenstock; 12. Rob Hoadley; 11. Justin Bishop; 10. Mark Mapletoft; 9. Darren Edwards; 1. Neal Hatley (captain); 2. Naka Drotske; 3. Pierre Durant; 4. Nick Kennedy; 5. Bob Casey; 6. Paul Gustard; 7. Kieron Dawson; 8. Phil Murphy.

Substitutes:

16. Doug Wheatley; 17. Adrian Flavin; 18. Rhys Buckler; 19. Michael Haslett; 20. Michael Horak*; 21. Kevin Brennan; 22. Matt Cannon.