Harlequins Team to play Vannes

London UK, 16 Oct - Harlequins have made four changes to their starting XV that will face RC Vannes in Round 1 of the EPCR Challenge Cup at The Stoop on Sunday (18 October, KO 13:00).

Jason Gilmore has opted for two changes to the pack and backline that will run out in TW2 to kickstart Harlequins 2026/27 european campaign.

In the backline, there is a change to the back three as Rodrigo Isgró returns to the starting lineup on the right wing. The Los Pumas forms part of an electric backfield with George Furbank continuing at fullback and skipper Cadan Murley operating on the left wing.

The centre pairing of Luke Northmore and Byrn Bradley continues for a second week, while Marcus Smith is partnered with Lucas Friday in the halfbacks for the visit of RC Vannes.

Quins have an unchanged front row as Will Hobson and Simon Kerrod pack down either side of Sam Riley, who continues at hooker following a two-try performance against Sale Sharks last week.

James Dun and Kieran Treadwell provide ballast in the second row, while former european champion Guido Petti Pagadizábal comes in to start on the blindside.

Seb Driscoll continues to operate on the openside with Lucas Schmid stepping into the starting XV after an impactful display last week.

Gilmore has tweaked his impact options for Round 1 of the EPCR Challenge Cup with a six-two split of his replacements.

England Under-20 hooker Jimmy Staples is set for his european debut alongside summer arrival Harry Johnson-Holmes. Ollie Streeter is once again named as tighthead cover.

Elliot Williams comes in for his first senior involvement since pre-season, while Harry Browne and Will Evans return to the 23.

Will Porter's role is adjusted to that of an impact player, as well as Tyrone Green who completes the matchday squad.

HARLEQUINS v RC VANNES

• Sunday 18 October (KO 13:00)

• The Stoop, Twickenham

• EPCR Challenge Cup, Round 1

STARTING XV:

15. George Furbank (2)

14. Rodrigo Isgró (27)

13. Luke Northmore (101)

12. Bryn Bradley (39)

11. Cadan Murley (C) (154)

10. Marcus Smith (198)

9. Lucas Friday (22)

1. Will Hobson (43)

2. Sam Riley (86)

3. Simon Kerrod (133)

4. James Dun (4)

5. Kieran Treadwell (31)

6. Guido Petti Pagadizábal (20)

7. Seb Driscoll (11)

8. Lucas Schmid (15)

IMPACT PLAYERS:

16. Jimmy Staples (6)

17. Harry Johnson-Holmes (3)

18. Ollie Streeter (16)

19. Elliot Williams (12)

20. Harry Browne (19)

21. Will Evans (136)

22. Will Porter (63)

23. Tyrone Green (108)