CHALLENGE CUP SEMI-FINALS

LA ROCHELLE v SALE

(TODAY: Stade Marcel Deflandre, 5.30pm) LA ROCHELLE will field a massive pack, led by their France props Dany Priso and Uini Atonio, the tighthead who weighs in excess of 23stone. While former New Zealand No 8 Victor Vito is at the base of their scrum. Sale are boosted by the return of Chris Ashton — the all-time top try-scorer in European rugby. Ashton has not played since suffering a calf strain while on Test duty in February, but he will start this game. James O’Connor is also fit to return, while Curry twins Ben and Tom join forces in the back row. PREDICTION:Homewin.

CLERMONT v HARLEQUINS

(TODAY: Stade Marcel Michelin, 8pm) MIGHTY Clermont are able to recall former New Zealand centre George Moala after an ankle injury, in a much-changed team, alongside local icon Wesley Fofana. Scrum-half Morgan Parra captains the hosts, while Scotland’s Greig Laidlaw is on the bench. Hooker Rob Buchanan makes a remarkable return from injury for Quins having last played in September 2017. Wings Charlie Walker and Ross Chisholm replace the injured Nathan Earle and Cadan Murley. PREDICTION:Homewin.