URC Preview: Edinburgh and Glasgow both return home

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - OCTOBER 04: A general view of the Edinburgh squad huddled together during an Edinburgh Rugby Training Session at the DAM Health Stadium, on October 04, 2022, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Ross Parker/ SNS Group)

Edinburgh Rugby start off the action on Friday night when they host Emirates Lions at DAM Health Stadium (kick off 7.35pm) – live on Premier Sports.

Argentine international Emiliano Boffelli makes his first Edinburgh appearance of the 22/23 season, having enjoyed an impressive Rugby Championship campaign, notching up 20 points in August’s stunning win against the All Blacks.

There are eight changes in total from the side that lost to DHL Stormers, as Matt Currie, Henry Pyrgos, Boan Venter, Luan de Bruin, Glen Young, Luke Crosbie and Viliame Mata come into the starting XV.

Head Coach Mike Blair said: “We’re excited to be back home after a two-week tour and the squad are really looking forward to Friday night lights in front of the Edinburgh supporters – it’s always a special experience playing under the lights and we’re anticipating a brilliant atmosphere.”

Then on Saturday, Glasgow Warriors return to Scotstoun as they host Vodacom Bulls (kick off 7.35pm) – live on Premier Sports.

Sione Tuipulotu will captain the side for the first time, and three changes are made from the Warriors’ loss to Ospreys last weekend.

Josh McKay makes his first appearance of the season, whilst Matt Fagerson and George Horne have both recovered from knocks to return to the side.

Head Coach Franco Smith said: “The Bulls are another opportunity to take a step forward in our journey and everyone at the club is looking forward to welcoming them to Scotstoun tomorrow night.”