Pirates beef up for Ulster test

FLY-HALF Will Cargill will make his 50th appearance for Cornish Pirates as they look to back up last week’s win over Hartpury.

Canadian international lock Brett Beukeboom returns from injury and hooker James Fish, who is dual-registered with Northampton Saints, is selected for his first start in a Pirates shirt.

Head coach Gavin Cattle said: “We expect them to be a really typical Ulster team, inevitably strong up front and very direct, but our thoughts will also concentrate on how we are progressing.

“Although missing a number of experienced players, the squad has shown no shortage of character and we are in a pretty good place mentally, knowing also that we just need to get a few players back to hopefully help push us up a level.”

Redruth stalwart Chris Fuca is also included in the starting line-up, while a second on loan player, Kieran Westlake from Camborne, is named among the replacements.

Coach Alan Paver said: “We have been delighted to welcome Chris and Kieran to our squad this week.

“Chris is a stalwart of Cornish rugby, whilst Kieran is an aspirational younger player who has an opportunity to showcase his ability.”

South African prop Schalk van der Merwe will make his first appearance in an Ulster jersey having recovered from a shoulder injury.