Kruger in charge for Scarlets

SOUTH African international Werner Kruger takes over the captaincy for the Scarlets’ Guinness PRO14 clash with Isuzu Southern Kings at Parc y Scarlets tomorrow (5.15pm).

With centre Steff Hughes sidelined because of a shoulder injury picked up during last weekend’s defeat Edinburgh, the experienced Kruger takes over the armband for the first time this season.

The Scarlets’ starting XV shows three changes from the 14-9 defeat to the Scots. Corey Baldwin has recovered from a rib injury to take his place on the right wing, while Paul Asquith comes into midfield to replace Hughes in the only other change behind the scrum.

Up front, Wales international Samson Lee has been given more time to recover from a calf issue so Kruger again packs down at tight-head alongside hooker Taylor Davies and loose-head prop Phil Price.

Fijian international lock Tevita Ratuva comes in to partner fellow Pascific islander Sam Lousi in the second row, while the back row is the same as last weekend.

Aaron Shingler is the lone player released from Six Nations duty.

Scarlets forwards coach Ioan Cunningham said: “We had a lot of territory and possession against Edinburgh and we have learned a lot from that match. We’re looking forward to getting on the field on Sunday to make those changes.”.

A O’Brien; C Baldwin, K Fonotia, P Asquith, S Evans; D Jones, K Hardy; P Price, T Davies, W Kruger (capt), T Ratuva, S Lousi, A Shingler, J Macleod, U Cassiem. Reps: I Phillips, D Evans, J Sebastian, S Cummins, D Davis, D Blacker, R Conbeer, T Rogers.

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