Macleod leads Scarlets in Italy

JOSH Macleod will lead the Scarlets as they return to action to face Benetton at Stadio Monigo today (5.15pm).

Benetton currently stand in second place in Conference B, with Leinster still defending top spot.

Wales stars Rhys Patchell and Steff Evans have been released this week, with Patchell taking his place on the bench and Evans selected at left wing.

Leigh Halfpenny was not considered for the fixture against Benetton Rugby, this weekend.

Although Halfpenny has returned to full training, it was collectively decided that he should continue training fully with the hope he will be available for selection in the imminent future.

Reflecting on his team’s history with the opposition ahead of this weekend’s game, Scarlets head coach Wayne Pivac, said: “They’re an improved side, last year in the same window they beat us at their place.

“They’ve got a side now that with the addition of a few players is adding a bit of spark.

Commenting on injury comebacks, Pivac, went on to say: “We’ve got a few back, which is pleasing. Lewis Rawlins is back training and managed every aspect yesterday and so he came through his injury and therefore is available for selection.”

Will Boyde is back training with us and also Uzair Cassiem ran well yesterday”.

Scarlets team:

Johnny McNicholl, Ioan Nicholas, Kieron Fonotia, Paul Asquith, Steff Evans, Dan Jones, Kieran Hardy, Phil Price, Marc Jones, Werner Kruger, Josh Helps, Tom Price, Josh Macleod (capt), Dan Davis, Uzair Cassiem. Replacements: Dafydd Hughes, Dylan Evans, Simon Gardiner, Lewis Rawlins, Will Boyde, Jon Evans, Rhys Patchell, Steff Hughes