Sale Sharks name Tom and Ben Curry in their starting back row together for the first time since June 2025 ahead of a busy Prem weekend.
English rugby fans are set for a major boost as Sale Sharks prepare to feature Tom Curry and Ben Curry together in the starting back row for the first time in sixteen months, marking a crucial tactical shift for the club.
The high profile reunion comes as Sale makes four key changes to their lineup ahead of a challenging away fixture against Newcastle, providing a timely boost just before England head coach Steve Borthwick names his upcoming autumn squad.
Both players have faced significant time on the sidelines due to injuries, but their return adds immense depth to the squad, according to information published by BBC.
Tom and Ben Curry return for Sale Sharks
Tom Curry has struggled for regular playing time, having featured in just three matches since February, which included a brief summer appearance for England A. His twin brother, Ben Curry, is finally making his first league start of the current campaign after missing nearly all of last season due to a troublesome hamstring issue.
The inclusion of the dynamic brothers alongside Christ Tshiunza in the back row provides Sale with formidable physical presence. Head coach Steve Borthwick will be watching closely as these international stars look to reestablish their dominance on the domestic rugby stage.
Newcastle ready for crucial Premiership clash
While Sale welcomes back key personnel, hosts Newcastle have their own major milestones in focus during Friday night encounter. Winger Christian Wade starts on the flank as he edges closer to breaking the all time Premiership try scoring record after securing his 100th league try against Exeter.
Newcastle boss has also welcomed back centre Will Rigg from a lengthy injury layoff alongside full back Josh Hodge, who makes his first Premiership start following a recovery from a broken hand. Both sides enter the weekend eager to secure vital league points.
Extensive changes across Premiership derbies
Elsewhere in the division, Gloucester prepares to host Bath without key figures like captain Dewi Lake and centre Seb Atkinson due to recent injuries. The Cherry and Whites have handed teenager Will Knight his first Premiership start in the centre alongside Max Llewellyn.
Meanwhile, Bath has responded to back to back defeats by making a sweeping eight changes to their starting XV. Winger Tyler Offiah is handed his first league start, while Wales centre Louie Hennessey makes a welcome return from a shoulder injury in the backline.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Tom and Ben Curry last start a game together?
Tom and Ben Curry last started in the back row together for Sale Sharks in June 2025, prior to a lengthy period affected by injuries.
Why did Tom Curry miss most of the rugby season?
Tom Curry played just three matches since February due to fitness setbacks, though he did make a single appearance for England A during the summer.
What milestone is Christian Wade approaching in the Premiership?
Newcastle winger Christian Wade has scored 100 Premiership tries and needs just one more to equal Chris Ashton's all-time record, or two to break it.
Which players are missing for Gloucester against Bath?
Gloucester is missing captain Dewi Lake with a head injury, centre Seb Atkinson with a knee issue, and winger Ben Loader due to a hamstring injury.
