Costello gives his kids their chance

NOTTINGHAM head coach Ian Costello has retained just four of his line-up from last week’s 34-31 victory at Cornish Pirates.

Jimmy Stevens, Tim Cardall, Vili Hakalo and Joe Cobden get the nod from Costello.

Having recovered from a pre-season injury, prop Kieran Davies makes his first appearance of the campaign, with dual-registered Northampton Saints duo, flanker Will Allman and lock Alex Moon both making their competitive debuts for the Green and Whites.

Bedford have also taken the opportunity to rotate their squad. Matt Gallagher, who has re-joined the Blues on dual registration from Saracens, goes straight into the team at full-back. He is joined in the backs by Ryan Hutler, who makes his first competitive start, Ollie Dodge and Lee Dickson who is named captain.

After six league games, the two teams are evenly matched having won four and lost two and Bedford back coach Paul Larkin said: “After a good start to the season, we turn our attention to the British & Irish Cup with the intention of progressing as far as possible. We know it won’t be easy as we are in a tricky group with Ospreys, Munster and Sunday’s hosts Nottingham who have made a great start to their campaign.

“Games against the Green and Whites are always tough and usually decided by just a couple of points, I’m expecting much of the same on Sunday.

“This is a great opportunity for our players to really stick their hand in the air and stake a claim for a starting place.”