Leicester Tigers begin the Premiership Rugby Cup campaign with a trip to face Sale Sharks this evening (7.45pm).
Brett Deacon leads the coaching team in this competition, with Tigers fielding a young team captained by prop James Whitcombe.
“This competition presents chances for young players to represent the club and show what they can do,” Deacon said. “As well as that, it is an opportunity to continue to take steps forward as a club.”
With this match coming between Gallagher Premiership fixtures against Newcastle Falcons last Saturday and this weekend’s short trip to Northampton Saints, Deacon added: “The schedule is what it is, we’re not going to be complaining when there is opportunities to represent Leicester Tigers.
“We’re committed to getting better – players, coaches, staff – and these midweek games present challenges and opportunities to test ourselves and continue to grow.
“We’ve spent a good chunk of time with the young guys coming through, working with the players transitioning into senior rugby. There has been a big focus on getting the young, next group through and Matt Smith has worked with these young men during the pre-season to help them improve and grow as players.
“All those selected have earned the chance to play for Tigers on Tuesday through their effort and hard work.”
Last season Tigers won three of their five games in the Premiership Rugby Cup, being knocked out in the semi-final stage at London Irish.
Tigers have visited Salford City Stadium on 10 previous occasions, winning four, with their most recent victory there in 2018.
This is a third meeting in the Premiership Rugby Cup, both at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, with Tigers losing 16-18 in November 2018 and winning 32-23 last year.
Tigers will be in the club’s change kit of red shirts and white shorts this evening.
In team news announced on Tuesday lunchtime, Tigers captain Whitcombe is among 12 graduates of the club’s academy in the matchday squad. There are five senior debutants, including hooker Tom Horton and full-back Lachlan Shelley.
If you are not attending the game, you can follow the action with updates on the Matchday Live coverage on the club’s website and app, or on the Tigers social media channels.
Round 1:
Today: Wasps v Newcastle Falcons (7.45pm), Sale Sharks v Leicester Tigers (7.45pm)
Wednesday: Gloucester Rugby v Worcester Warriors (7.45pm), Harlequins v London Irish (7.45pm)
Wednesday October 5: Northampton Saints v Saracens (7.45pm)
Saturday November 26: Exeter Chiefs v Bath Rugby (3.00pm)
