Bears hand Piutau a start

ALY Muldowney and Charles Piutau will both make their first competitive starts when Bristol Bears travel to Wasps on the third weekend of the Premiership Rugby Cup tomorrow.

The Bears make nine changes from the line-up that beat Gloucester for the Ricoh Arena clash, as Will Hurrell also returns to the backline.

In the pack, Yann Thomas, Shaun Malton and John Afoa form an all-new front row, while Ed Holmes joins Muldowney in the engine room.

Steven Luatua and Jordan Crane come into the back row as Bristol aim for back-to-back victories in the competition.

Head coach Pat Lam said: “After the positive result last weekend, it’s vital that we keep showing improvements as a team ahead of another tough game in Wasps.

“This is our last opportunity to fine-tune different areas of our game with Premiership Rugby on the horizon. The guys feel confident and well-rested, so there is an excellent mood and determination in camp.”

George Smith is listed among the replacements, while Joe Joyce recovers from a knee injury to be included in the 23-man squad.