Mike Ruddock has named a powerful side for the Guinness Premiership clash with Sale Sharks with a number of players returning to full fitness for the Friday night clash (kick-off 8pm).

Centre Dale Rasmussen is one of six changes to the starting line-up that last faced Harlequins as he makes a first team return in the centre. Scrum half Ryan Powell is also given a start at Edgeley Park.

Wing Miles Benjamin is declared fit and slots back into the side with Chris Pennell on the opposite flank. New Zealander Rico Gear takes his place on the replacements bench.

The Worcester pack sees three changes with inspirational flanker Pat Sanderson handed a first start of the league season and the captaincy. Kai Horstmann will also play in the back row with Matt Cox among the replacements.

Craig Gillies is paired with Greg Rawlinson in the second row with lock Will Bowley making a return to the bench after recovering from a broken thumb. Chris Horsman is also named among the replacements after completing his ban.

Warriors v Sale Sharks

15 Chris Latham
14 Chris Pennell
13 Dale Rasmussen
12 Sam Tuitupou
11 Miles Benjamin
10 Matthew Jones
9 Ryan Powell

1 Matt Mullan
2 Aleki Lutui
3 Tevita Taumoepeau
4 Greg Rawlinson
5 Craig Gillies
6 Netani Talei
7 Pat Sanderson (c)
8 Kai Horstmann

16 Chris Fortey
17 Chris Horsman
18 Will Bowley
19 Matt Cox
20 Matt Powell
21 Loki Crichton
22 Rico Gear

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