Ospreys down but not out
Tue, 02 Sep 2008 20:51
The Ospreys have announced their matchday 22 to face Connacht in their Magners League opener in Galway on Friday, amidst a plethora of injuries.
A star-studded Welsh line-up will take the paddock at the Sportsground this weekend, despite some significant injury setbacks.
Ben Lewis is recovering well after undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery to his right knee, though will only be available for selection again in November.
Gavin Henson is on target for an early October return to action following keyhole surgery on damaged ankle ligaments.
Mike Phillips is on target for an early October return after undergoing surgery to repair damage to his anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments. Richard Hibbard is recovering well after recently undergoing minor surgery on his shoulder.
Adam Jones has not been considered due to a back injury but will be available for selection against the Cardiff Blues next week.
Tom Smith suffered a thigh strain in training this week and has not been considered but will be available for selection against Cardiff Blues. Lyndon Bateman has been experiencing a recurring back injury and misses the first week of the season.
Ospreys: 15 Lee Byrne, 14 Nikki Walker, 13 Sonny Parker, 12 Andrew Bishop, 11 Tommy Bowe, 10 James Hook, 9 Rhys Webb, 8 Ryan Jones (captain), 7 Marty Holah, 6 Andy Lloyd, 5 Ian Evans, 4 Ian Gough, 3 Cai Griffiths, 2 Huw Bennett, 1 Paul James.
Replacements: 16 Ed Shervington, 17 Duncan Jones, 18 Alun-Wyn Jones, 19 Filo Tiatia, 20 Rhodri Wells, 21 Gareth Owen, 22 Shane Williams.
Date: Friday, September 6
Venue: Sportsground, Galway
Kick-off: 18.30 (17.30 GMT)
Referee: Neil Paterson (Scotland)
Touch judges: Dudley Phillips (Ireland), Peter Roche (Ireland)
With thanks to magnersleague.com
