Scarlets Revamp Lineup Ahead of Crucial Lions Test
In a significant move as they prepare for the crucial match against the Lions, the Scarlets have revamped their lineup. This reshuffling includes two debutants: Harvey Cuckson and Alex Groves. They will make their first appearances for the Scarlets in the BKT United Rugby Championship round four at Ellis Park.
Scarlets Lineup Changes
The Scarlets face the Lions on Saturday, October 18, at 12:45 PM UK time. Due to injuries, the Scarlets are missing six second rows. Head coach Dwayne Peel has made seven changes to the team following their recent defeat to the DHL Stormers.
Key Personnel Adjustments
- Ioan Nicholas will take the position of full-back.
- Blair Murray is switching to the wing.
- Macs Page earns his first start of the season in midfield alongside captain Johnny Williams.
- Sam Costelow will partner with Archie Hughes in the half-back position, replacing Gareth Davies.
- Up front, Archer Holz steps in at tight-head alongside Alec Hepburn and Marnus van der Merwe.
- They will be partnering debutants Cuckson and Groves in the second row.
- The back row remains unchanged with Jarrod Taylor, Dan Davis, and Taine Plumtree.
Scarlets’ Strategy for Visiting Lions
Dwayne Peel emphasized the challenge of playing at altitude against the Lions. He noted, “Winning here last season was significant for us, and many players are experienced from that victory. We must replicate our intensity and physicality.” Peel also acknowledged the disappointment with their results so far but remained optimistic about the long season ahead.
Unavailable Players
The Scarlets will miss several key players due to injuries and illness, including:
- Max Douglas
- Tristan Davies
- Tom Rogers
- Jake Ball
- Josh Macleod
- Sam Lousi
- Kemsley Mathias
- Ryan Elias
- Eddie James
- Jac Price
- Osian Williams
- Will Evans
- Dom Kossuth
Scarlets Squad for Match Against Lions
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| 15 | Ioan Nicholas |
| 14 | Ellis Mee |
| 13 | Macs Page |
| 12 | Johnny Williams (capt) |
| 11 | Blair Murray |
| 10 | Sam Costelow |
| 9 | Archie Hughes |
| 1 | Alec Hepburn |
| 2 | Marnus van der Merwe |
| 3 | Archer Holz |
| 4 | Harvey Cuckson |
| 5 | Alex Groves |
| 6 | Jarrod Taylor |
| 7 | Dan Davis |
| 8 | Taine Plumtree |
This revamped lineup signifies the Scarlets’ intent as they look to secure a vital victory against a formidable Lions side.
