Gloucester Rugby are set to welcome back several key players ahead of their Round 15 Gallagher Premiership clash against Sale Sharks on Friday night at Kingsholm. The return of three forwards—versatile prop Ciaran Knight, hooker Seb Blake, and number eight Jack Mann—provides a significant boost to the squad.
Knight has recovered from a knee injury and is back in full training. Head coach George Skivington explained, “He hurt his knee, nothing too serious, but enough to keep him out the following week. I could’ve played him against Exeter if needed, but we chose to give him time to recover, and now he’s available.”
Additionally, hooker Jack Innard, centre Max Llewellyn, and winger Ollie Thorley have cleared the Return to Play protocols following their head injury assessments during Gloucester’s 34-31 victory over Exeter Chiefs. Their availability will add depth and competition to the backline as Gloucester prepare to face Sale, who arrive off the back of a commanding 52-33 victory over Harlequins.
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Skivington noted, “We picked up a few HIAs but all have passed the test since then. The squad won’t look much different from last time, which is encouraging.”
Following the win against Exeter, Skivington reflected that his Round 14 team was the closest he has had all season to a fully fit selection amidst ongoing injury challenges.
However, there is one setback: prop Jamal Ford-Robinson will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery for a persistent knee issue.
On a positive note, fullback Ben Redshaw has returned to full training after recovering from an ankle injury. Skivington commented, “Ben’s situation has been a bit complicated; he was already carrying some knocks when we inherited him. It’s flared up a couple of times, but he’s an important player for our long-term plans. We’re trusting the medical team to get him fully fit in time.”
Currently sitting eighth in the Gallagher Premiership table, Gloucester hold the final Champions Cup qualification spot, just five points ahead of ninth-placed Harlequins. With Sale Sharks placed seventh and coming off a strong win, Gloucester know that securing maximum points at Kingsholm will be vital in their quest to climb the standings.