Herbst set for 50th Quins appearance

Harlequins have named their matchday squad for Friday night’s Gallagher Premiership clash with champions Northampton Saints at Cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens (KO 19:45).

The Starting XV features six changes following the win against Newcastle Falcons, with Irne Herbst set to make his 50th appearance and with Stephan Lewies continuing to captain the side in the absence of the injured Alex Dombrandt.

In the forwards, props Fin Baxter and Titi Lamositele continue alongside returning hooker Jack Walker. Irne Herbst joins Stephan Lewies at second-row, with Jack Kenningham and Will Evans continuing on the flanks. Chandler Cunningham-South completes the pack at number eight.

In the backs, Danny Care returns at scrum-half, with Jarrod Evans moving into the starting line-up at number 10 and Marcus Smith moving to fullback in place of Leigh Halfpenny. In the centres, Lennox Anyanwu is joined by Will Joseph who comes in for the injured Luke Northmore. Oscar Beard and Nick David start on the wings, with Cassius Cleaves picking up an injury against Newcastle.

The Impact Players feature the traditional five-three split, with Nathan Jibulu joining Jordan Els and Simon Kerrod in the front-row. Dino Lamb and James Chisholm provide cover at lock and back-row, with Will Porter, Bryn Bradley and Cameron Anderson the impact backs.

Head Coach Danny Wilson commented: “Friday night games under the lights offer a great atmosphere. It’s a great place to go and play rugby and a great surface. I know the boys are really looking forward to have a go against the champions.”

Starting XV:

1. Fin Baxter (53)

2. Jack Walker (65)

3. Titi Lamositele (2)

4. Irne Herbst (49)

5. Stephan Lewies (72 – Captain)

6. Jack Kenningham (51)

7. Will Evans (92)

8. Chandler Cunningham-South (18)

9. Danny Care (378)

10. Jarrod Evans (19)

11. Oscar Beard (57)

12. Lennox Anyanwu (24)

13. Will Joseph (13)

14. Nick David (51)

15. Marcus Smith (162)

Impact Players:

16. Nathan Jibulu (15)

17. Jordan Els (35)

18. Simon Kerrod (105)

19. Dino Lamb (95)

20. James Chisholm (150)

21. Will Porter (24)

22. Bryn Bradley (9)

23. Cameron Anderson (7)

Not available for selection (injury/ new player arrival): Alex Dombrandt, Cadan Murley, Tyrone Green, Joe Marler, Cassius Cleaves, Luke Northmore, Leigh Halfpenny, George Head, Rodrigo Isgro