Watkins starts for Bristol in British & Irish Cup

The Championship takes a break to make way for the British and Irish Cup on Saturday, as Bristol face Coventry for a third time this season.

Currently sitting fourth in their pool, Bristol have named a strong side for the home fixture, aiming to continue their momentum as the league approaches the play-off stages.

Whilst the new competition has offered younger members of Bristol Rugby a chance to showcase their skills, experience remains a key element in the squad with Roy Winters, David Blaney and Darren Crompton all named in the team line-up.

Academy players Jack Tovey, George Watkins, Darren Barry, and England U20 prop Mako Vunipola are all selected to start on Saturday, while Ben Glynn and Jack Gadd are named as replacements.

James Merriman, Iain Grieve and Junior Fatialofa return from injury to the staring XV, as does Alex Clarke who is called onto the bench.

Bristol Rugby Vs Coventry, Saturday 13th February, The Memorial Stadium, KO 2pm.

Bristol Rugby

Jack Tovey; Luke Eves, Jack Adams, Junior Fatialofa, George Watkins, Chris Ashwin, Sam Alford; Mako Vunipola, Ross Johnston, Wayne Thompson, Darren Barry, Roy Winters, Jamie Miller, James Merriman, Iain Grieve

Replacements David Blaney, Alex Clarke, Darren Crompton, Ben Glynn, Robbie Shaw, Sam Giddens, Jack Gadd.