Two of the four sides contesting the Premiership semi-finals have been blighted by player availability problems for this weekend’s fixtures, with Leicester’s Chris Ashton and Northampton’s Sam Matavesi both missing out for their clubs.
Ashton has been left out of Leicester’s squad to face Sale on Sunday after his disciplinary hearing for a red card was not scheduled until Thursday. His red card, for a dangerous tackle on Cadan Murley, was rescinded after a lengthy hearing but Leicester are understood to be frustrated it did not take place earlier in the week. As it was, the Tigers did not know if Ashton would be available until less than 48 hours before kick-off and, ultimately, he has been omitted from the squad.
Matavesi is unavailable for Northampton’s semi-final at Saracens on Saturday due to his involvement in the annual Army v Navy fixture at Twickenham. Matavesi is a serving member of the Royal Navy and though there is precedent for players missing club matches to take part in the Babcock Trophy fixture, Northampton are thought to be frustrated they could not secure his release for such an important game.
In Ashton’s case, the Rugby Football Union has said it was unable to convene a disciplinary panel earlier than Thursday, even though they tend to take place on Tuesdays, if not Wednesdays. The upshot is that if the defending champions are beaten on Sunday, Ashton’s rugby union career will be over. Last month he announced his intention to retire at the end of the season, shortly before becoming the first player in history to reach a century of Premiership tries.
Ashton was due to attend the Premiership Rugby end of season awards on Wednesday night to be honoured for his achievements but withdrew to make himself available for his disciplinary hearing.
Richard Wigglesworth has instead named Anthony Watson and Harry Potter on the Leicester wings with Freddie Steward at full-back and Guy Porter providing cover from the bench. Ben Youngs has also been preferred to Jack van Poortvliet at scrum-half.
Sale welcome back Tom Curry, who was rested last Saturday, as he takes his place in the back row alongside twin brother and fellow flanker Ben.
In Matavesi’s absence, Tom Cruse starts at hooker for Northampton with Robbie Smith fit again and providing cover from the bench. Courtney Lawes will make a club record 165th start for Saints, who are boosted by the return to fitness of James Ramm on the wing.
