Ospreys ready for European adventure

Wales back-rower Jones has not played since picking up a dead leg in the Ospreys’ EDF Energy Cup win over Gloucester three weeks ago, but has been given the all clear to start against the reigning Guinness Premiership champions.

Jones’ return means the Ospreys can name a full-strength side, including three other British Lions, Gavin Henson, Shane Williams and Brent Cockbain, for the Pool 3 curtain raiser at the Liberty Stadium,

Ospreys coach Lyn Jones, who earlier this week claimed there was “no bigger challenge” in European rugby than Sale, said: “I watched Sale demolish London Irish last weekend and I was really impressed with the way they are playing.

“They didn’t just beat the Irish, they manhandled them into submission and we will have to match their physicality up front if we are to get anything out of this game.”

But Jones reckons the Ospreys fans will also have a big part to play in tonight’s clash.

He said: “We will enjoy strong support from the Liberty Stadium crowd and the Heineken Cup is a competition where this counts for everything.

“I am sure anyone who appreciates what the game of rugby is all about will be at the stadium for what promises to be an encounter to remember.”

Ospreys: 15 Lee Byrne, 14 Nikki Walker, 13 Sonny Parker, 12 Andrew Bishop, 11 Shane Williams,    10 Gavin Henson, 9 Justin Marshall, 8 Ryan Jones, 7 Steve Tandy, 6 Filo Tiatia,  5 Ian Evans, 4 Brent Cockbain, 3 Adam Jones, 2 Barry Williams, 1 Duncan Jones (Capt)
Replacements: 16 Huw Bennett, 17 Paul James, 18 Alun Wyn Jones, 19. Jonathan Thomas, 20 Jason Spice, 21 Shaun Connor, 22. James Hook