Pat Howard has chosen to select a blend of youth and experience ahead of this evening's encounter with Castres in France. The match marks the start of the 2006/07 season for Tigers and is sure to prove a worthwhile challenge as the club builds towards another challenging campaign.

Daryl Gibson captains the side from inside centre, while England internationals Harry Ellis and Andy Goode start at half back. Leo Cullen and Louis Deacon continue their second row partnership, with new England cap, George Chuter, taking the number two shirt. Alex Moreno returns to the starting line-up following a lengthy injury lay-off, with Henry Tuilagi in contention for game time after recovering from a broken leg.

Matt Smith marks his promotion to the first team squad with a starting berth at full back, while England U-19 stars, Ollie Dodge and Tom Youngs, are selected at 14 and 13 respectively. New signing, Jordan Crane, begins at number eight, with fellow youngster, Alex Shaw, a possible starter on the blindside flank.

Frank Murphy could make his Tigers debut from the replacements bench, which also includes England Saxons hooker, James Buckland, and Lions tourist, Graham Rowntree.

Tigers team to play Castres, Thursday August 3, kick-off 8 or 8.15pm (TBC):

15    Matt Smith
14    Ollie Dodge
13    Tom Youngs
12    Daryl Gibson (c)
11    Ryan Owen
10    Andy Goode
 9     Harry Ellis
 8     Jordan Crane
 7     Shane Jennings
 6     Brett Deacon/Alex Shaw
 5     Leo Cullen
 4     Louis Deacon
 3     Dave Young
 2     George Chuter
 1     Alex Moreno
 
Replacements from:
 
James Buckland
Graham Rowntree
Dan Cole
Tom Croft
Henry Tuilagi
James Hamilton
Frank Murphy
Cesar Sempere (on loan)
Sam Vesty
Mitch Culpin