Leicester shuffle pack as Gloucester stick with winners for Slater Cup

Leicester Tigers have made five changes for the visit of Gloucester on Friday, 9 October, with both sides putting early-season momentum on the line in the Slater Cup.

The game at Mattioli Woods Welford Road is the third round of Prem action, according to BBC Sport. Leicester arrive after beating Newcastle Red Bulls last week. Gloucester arrive after a 48-0 thrashing of Harlequins.

The Slater Cup carries real weight. It honours Ed Slater, the former lock — the tall, lineout and scrum specialist in the second row — who captained both clubs. His playing career ended early after a diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease in 2022.

Leicester head coach Geoff Parling has shuffled his pack and his backs. Hooker Jamie Blamire makes his first Prem start of the season. He replaces Samiuela Moli in the front row, the three forwards at the heart of the scrum.

There is also a change at loosehead prop, the scrummager who packs down on the left. Archie van der Flier starts. Mako Vunipola drops to the bench. Finn Carnduff returns to the starting pack to add more carrying power.

Out wide, Ollie Hassell-Collins comes in for Adam Radwan on the wing. In the centres, Will Wand replaces Solomone Kata, who misses out with a calf injury.

Gloucester have kept faith with a winning team. Head coach George Skivington has made just two changes to the XV that shut out Quins.

Ben Redshaw starts at full-back, the last line of defence, in place of George Barton. In the front row, Dian Bleuler replaces Val Rapava-Ruskin.

There is a welcome return on the bench. Wales centre Max Llewellyn is named among the replacements for the first time this season.

For fans, this means a contrast in selection. Leicester are rotating and testing depth. Gloucester are backing continuity after a statement win.

Leicester confirmed the Friday night slot at Welford Road earlier this week, according to Leicester Tigers. Expect a physical night. The scrum and the contact area will be fierce. The Cup name on the trophy will remind everyone why.