Radwan returns, Wallaby replaces in-form Leicester star for Bordeaux mission

Adam Radwan will return to the Leicester Tigers starting XV for Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup trip to Bordeaux-Begles, while James O’Connor is also restored to the run-on side for the trip to France.

Radwan is named on the wing for a Round of 16 clash, earning his first start since mid-January after making his return from the bench in last weekend’s Slater Cup win over Gloucester, replacing Gabriel Hamer-Webb.

The winger is one of several changes to the Tigers backline, with Australian international O’Connor coming in at fly-half to partner Jack van Poortvliet, shifting Billy Searle to the replacements for the daunting away fixture with the reigning Champions Cup champs.

It’s easily the biggest call of the selection, with Searle arguably the Tigers’ best performer this year after successfully commandeering the Leicester ten jersey this season from his would-be rivals, including O’Connor.

There is further Wallaby presence outside him, with Izaia Perese named in the centres alongside Joseph Woodward.

Fixture

Investec Champions Cup

Bordeaux

07:00

5 Apr 26

Leicester

All Stats and Data

In the pack, Leicester will mark two significant milestones. Harry Wells is selected at lock for his 150th start for the club, while Archie van der Flier is named at loosehead prop for what will be his 20th Tigers appearance.

Bulls-bound Hanro Liebenberg again leads the side from the second row as the Tigers look to test themselves against one of Europe’s most dangerous attacking outfits on their own patch.

“We’re excited about testing our game away in Europe against a top Bordeaux team who we know will be keen to impress their home crowd,” said Head coach Geoff Parling.

“We’ve made some changes with our starting team with players hungry to perform, and it’s also great to welcome Hendo (Cam Henderson) back into the 23.”

“As always, we hope our travelling fans see a team that lays everything out there and we look forward to hearing their support.”

Leicester Tigers vs Bordeaux Begles:
15. Freddie Steward
14. Adam Radwan
13. Izaia Perese
12. Joseph Woodward
11. Ollie Hassell-Collins
10. James O’Connor
09. Jack van Poortvliet
1. Archie van der Flier
2. Jamie Blamire
3. Will Hurd
4. Hanro Liebenberg
5. Harry Wells
6. Joaquin Moro
7. Joshua Manz
8. Olly Cracknell

Replacements
16. Charlie Clare
17. Tarek Haffar
18. Ale Loman
19. Cameron Henderson
20. Harry Palmer
21. Tom Whiteley
22. Billy Searle
23. Will Wand