Saints prepare for historic Champions Cup match in South Africa

Northampton Saints are set to make history this weekend as they compete in South Africa for the first time in the Investec Champions Cup.

The Saints will face the Vodacom Bulls in Round 2 of the competition on Saturday, December 14, at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Having defeated the Bulls 59-22 in the quarter-finals of last season’s European competition, Northampton is determined to maintain their position at the top of Pool 3 with another strong performance.

Captain George Furbank returns to the starting XV after a week of rest. He will lead the team from full-back, joining Ollie Sleightholme and Tommy Freeman in a dynamic back three.

Rory Hutchinson starts at inside centre, with Fraser Dingwall moving to outside centre for this match. England internationals Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith continue as the half-back pairing.

The tight five remains unchanged, featuring Emmanuel Iyogun, Curtis Langdon, and Elliot Millar Mills in the front row, supported by Temo Mayanavanua and Tom Lockett in the second row.

Alex Coles steps into the starting back row for his first start of the season, teaming up with Henry Pollock and Juarno Augustus, who has been in excellent form.

Saints have opted for a six-two split on the bench, emphasizing forward reinforcements. Key substitutes include Tarek Haffar, Trevor Davison, and Tom Pearson, while Archie McParland and George Hendy provide backline cover.

Saints Starting XV:

Backs: George Furbank (c), Ollie Sleightholme, Tommy Freeman, Rory Hutchinson, Fraser Dingwall, Fin Smith, Alex Mitchell.

Forwards: Emmanuel Iyogun, Curtis Langdon, Elliot Millar Mills, Temo Mayanavanua, Tom Lockett, Alex Coles, Henry Pollock, Juarno Augustus.

Reserves: Tarek Haffar, Trevor Davison, Sam Matavesi, Tom Pearson, Brandon Nansen, Conor Carey, Archie McParland, George Hendy.