Worcester's Ryan Makes Changes

Worcester's hopes of progressing in the Amlin Challenge Cup are effectively over, prompting director of rugby Dean Ryan to use Thursday night's trip to Biarritz to experiment with selection.

 Ryan has made 10 changes to the side that lost the same fixture 19-15 at Sixways last week, leaving the Warriors at the foot of Sale-led Pool One after three matches.Wing Josh Drauniniu, prop Jeremy Becasseau, full-back Ben Howard and fly-half Max Stelling are among those to start in the developmental line-up.

 "I want to provide some opportunities for players to push for selection," Ryan said.

 "Because we have quite a small squad and some guys are under pressure to play every week, this is a chance to give them a rest."

 People have an opportunity to put their hands up for a Premiership place."

 We are starting to see the group evolve and after Christmas our selection will be a bit more consistent. This is a big window for some people to join that group."

 Worcester led 12-0 against Biarritz only to fall away and are still searching for their first win of the season in any competition.

 Newport Gwent Dragons travel to Bordeaux-Begles on Thursday night seeking to maintain pressure on Pool Two leaders Bath. Victory would keep the Welsh region's destiny in their own hands.

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