JVP starts against Saracens

January 02, 2026
149
Ultimate Rugby

Jack van Poortvliet returns to Leicester Tigers’ starting XV ahead of the visit of Saracens to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.

The scrum half hasn’t started since the visit to Northampton Saints on October 11, making his comeback from injury from the bench in the last two games.

Sam Williams makes his first Gallagher PREM start for the club, while James Thompson and Orlando Bailey also join the side.

In the reserves, Emeka Ilione makes his long awaited return from injury, having been out of action since late October. Ollie Allan, Will Wand and Charlie Clare also join the substitutes.

Geoff Parling said, “Tommy Reffell is going through his GRTP protocols after his concussion last week, so Sam gets his first opportunity to start in the Prem for us after impressing with his defensive physicality and work rate.”

“It’s also great to welcome Emeka back into the 23 and we've seen an instant impact in training not just through his physical actions but also his communication.”

“We know Saracens are a team with both aerial and physical threats and we look forward to welcoming them to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”

15. Freddie Steward (120)

14. Adam Radwan (22)

13. Izaia Perese (19)

12. Orlando Bailey (10)

11. Ollie Hassell-Collins (59)

10. Billy Searle (12)

9. Jack van Poortvliet (101)

1. Nicky Smith (34)

2. Jamie Blamire (10)

3. Joe Heyes (171)

4. Cameron Henderson (75)