With their next four league games proving vital in the region’s play-off ambitions, head coach Simon Easterby is strengthened with a number of players returning from injury. Welsh international Josh Turnbull is also available.
Captain Rob McCusker returns to the pack to lead his team while George Earle and young tight head prop Samson Lee both start.
Young outside half talent Owen Williams is rewarded with another start after his accomplished performance steered his team to a win over the Tigers.
“It’s been really positive for us to work off the back of a good performance and winning result last weekend,” said Easterby.
“The boys have been feeling good this week and it really helps give an extra edge when you come in off the back of a win like that.
“This is the first of four very important games for us in our play-off ambitions. There is still a lot of rugby left and teams right through the league table can easily ramp up points during these periods so we have to make these next four games count.”
Connacht have won two of their last three matches in all competitions and won 27-19 against Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade earlier this season.
And Easterby knows his side will be up against a physical Irish side.
“It’s a big game for us, Connacht are a well-coached side and are very competitive,” he added.
“They have some quality players in their ranks and can build continuity in their side at this period of the season without losing as many internationals as us.
“We have to set a platform in this next block of games and the players know full well what we need to achieve over the next few weeks.
“We have seen some real ambition from some of our emerging players in the past fortnight.
“They have really stepped up and that’s a real positive for the Scarlets squad.”
