London Irish have made four changes for their Parker Pen opener away to French side Montauban this Saturday.
Ed Thrower takes over from Michael Horak at full back, while Nick Greenstock replaces Geoff Appleford at outside centre. Mark Mapletoft will come in at flyhalf in place of Barry Everitt, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
In the forwards Paul Gustard replaces the injured Declan Danaher who is out with back trouble.
Rob Hardwick (thumb), Kieran Roche (leg), Chris Sheasby (eye) and Ryan Strudwick (leg) are all unavailable for selection because of injury.
Irish head coach Gary Gold recognises the tough task ahead: "When you play away in France you know you are in for a tough contest. All French teams want to do well in front of their home crowds. Montauban will be no different, they have a powerful and experienced pack with lively backs that will provide a stern test for us."
LONDON IRISH:15. Ed Thrower; 14. Paul Sackey; 13. Nick Greenstock; 12. Rob Hoadley; 11. Justin Bishop; 10. Mark Mapletoft; 9. Darren Edwards; 1. Neal Hatley (captain); 2. Naka Drotske; 3. Pierre Durant; 4. Nick Kennedy; 5. Bob Casey; 6. Paul Gustard; 7. Kieron Dawson; 8. Phil Murphy.
Replacements:16. Doug Wheatley; 17. Adrian Flavin; 18. Rhys Buckler; 19. Michael Haslett; 20. Michael Horak*; 21. Kevin Brennan; 22. Matt Cannon