BBC RUGBY UNION: CURRY SET FOR SALE COMEBACK
In a significant move ahead of the Gallagher Premiership semi-finals, Sale Sharks have made some noteworthy changes to their lineup. The Manchester club, who secured their play-off berth with a 20-10 victory over Saracens in round 18, will be without the services of Manu Tuilagi and Luke Cowan-Dickie for their clash against Bath.
However, there is a silver lining as Tom Curry is set to make his long-awaited return to the field. The England flanker, who has been sidelined since October, has been named on the Sale bench, which features a six-to-two forwards-to-backs split.
Tuilagi’s hamstring injury, sustained during the win over Saracens, will keep him out of the semi-final, while Cowan-Dickie, who played 51 minutes in the previous match, will also be absent.
In their stead, Sam James has been promoted from the bench to start, with Luke James filling the vacancy on the bench.
Tommy Taylor will be the starting hooker, with veteran Agustin Creevy providing cover as a replacement. The inclusion of Tom Curry on the bench is a significant boost for Sale, as the back-rower has not played any rugby since helping England secure a third-place finish at the Rugby World Cup last October.
Curry’s hip issue, which required surgery, has sidelined him until now, but his return to the squad is a timely one as Sale look to secure a place in the Premiership final for the second consecutive season.
The match between Bath and Sale Sharks is set to be a thrilling encounter, with the Manchester club determined to maintain their impressive form and reach the final once again.
đź”— Source
