Team news: Doncaster Knights vs Bristol Rugby

• Eight internationals in starting XV
• Four changes to team for Castle Park
• Two Samoan internationals return to line-up
• Eight aged 24 or under in starting XV

The lock is one of four changes to Pat Lam’s side ahead of the Castle Park clash, as Alapati Leiua also comes in after international duty to start on the wing, while Mat Protheroe is also included.

In the pack, Soane Tonga’uiha is listed in the front row, while Jordan Crane skippers the side in the absence of Steven Luatua (ribs).

Lam said: “We’re finding the right formula at the moment. We’re trusting one another, preparing well and getting our mindset right.

“Getting that detail and preparation done during the week gives us confidence and belief. We have to keep going and keep pushing forward. The boys know the importance of the game at Castle Park.”

Bristol name a strong bench including Jack Lam and Siale Piutau, both of whom represented their countries during the November tests.

Bristol Rugby team to face Doncaster Knights at Castle Park on Saturday, 2 December (2.30pm KO):

15. Mat Protheroe; 14. Jordan Williams, 13. Will Hurrell, 12. Tusi Pisi, 11. Alapati Leiua; 10. Ian Madigan, 9. Rhodri Williams; 1. Soane Tonga’uiha, 2. Jason Harris-Wright, 3. Gaston Cortes, 4. Joe Joyce, 5. Chris Vui, 6. Sam Jeffries, 7. Dan Thomas, 8. Jordan Crane (c).

Replacements: 16. Ben Gompels, 17. Ryan Bevington, 18. Nicky Thomas, 19. Jack Lam, 20. Andy Uren, 21. Billy Searle, 22. Siale Piutau.

UNAVAILABLE: Max Crumpton (knee), Ross McMillan (hamstring), Jordon Liney (ankle), Tyler Gendall (knee), John Hawkins (knee), Joe Latta (ankle), Dan Tuohy (shoulder), Steven Luatua (ribs), Nick Haining (shoulder), James Newey (ankle), Thretton Palamo (foot), Sam Bedlow (ankle), Luke Morahan (hamstring).