Glasgow Warriors ready for Connacht quarter-final test

Franco Smith’s side enter the play-offs carrying momentum after successive victories over Cardiff and Ulster secured a home tie, while the return of Scott Cummings provides a major boost ahead of the knockout stages.

The Scotland and British & Irish Lions second row makes his first appearance since January’s win away to Zebre Parma after recovering from injury, adding further experience and physicality to a Glasgow side packed with international quality.

Cummings partners Alex Samuel in the second row, with the in-form loose-forward trio of Matt Fagerson, Rory Darge and Jack Dempsey reunited after Darge and Fagerson were rested for the final round victory in Belfast.

Up front, Patrick Schickerling returns at loosehead alongside Johnny Matthews and Zander Fagerson, while George Horne and Dan Lancaster continue their growing partnership at half-back following impressive performances in recent weeks.

There is continuity behind the scrum too, with Kyle Steyn captaining an unchanged back-line for the third match in succession. Kyle Rowe and Josh McKay retain their places in the back three, while Sione Tuipulotu and Stafford McDowall continue in midfield after combining superbly for Glasgow’s opening try against Ulster.

Smith believes his side will need to be at their best if they are to continue their title defence.

“Connacht will present a strong challenge tomorrow evening,” the Glasgow head coach said.

“They have a well-drilled squad full of talent, and come here as one of the most in-form teams in the competition.

“We are pleased to welcome Scott back into our matchday 23 after his injury layoff – he has worked hard and worked closely with our medical and S&C teams to put himself in the best possible position ahead of his return.

“We know the difference that the Warrior Nation can make, and we look forward to hearing them get behind the team at Scotstoun as we kick off the playoffs tomorrow night.”

There could also be a milestone moment for two of Glasgow’s emerging talents, with Jare Oguntibeju and Jack Oliver both poised for their first experience of URC knock-out rugby after being named among the replacements.

With Scotstoun expected to provide another electric atmosphere and knockout rugby returning to Glasgow, Friday night promises to be another huge occasion for the Warriors as they bid to keep their championship defence alive.

There are still tickets remaining for the match – click here to secure your seat.

Glasgow Warriors team to face Connacht at Scotstoun, Friday 29 May, kick-off 7.45pm (appearances in brackets): 

1 Patrick Schickerling (26)
2 Johnny Matthews (108)
3 Zander Fagerson (175)
4 Scott Cummings (153)
5 Alex Samuel (56)
6 Matt Fagerson (139)
7 Rory Darge (78)
8 Jack Dempsey (69)

9 George Horne (155)
10 Dan Lancaster (21)
11 Kyle Rowe (52)
12 Sione Tuipulotu (86)
13 Stafford McDowall (116)
14 Kyle Steyn (C) (108)
15 Josh McKay (80)

Replacements

16 Gregor Hiddleston (47)
17 Rory Sutherland (24)
18 Sam Talakai (42)
19 Jare Oguntibeju (23)
20 Euan Ferrie (56)
21 Sione Vailanu (43)
22 Jack Oliver (7)
23 Ollie Smith (65)

Unavailable for selection: Ben Afshar (ankle), Gregor Brown (calf), Ryan Burke (knee), Alex Craig (foot), Jamie Dobie (shoulder), Angus Fraser (back), Huw Jones (foot), Charlie Savala (knee), Grant Stewart (ankle), Tavi Tuipulotu (knee), Max Williamson (knee).