Challenge Cup Preview

Bath v Leeds

Today, 2.15pm, Recreation Ground

Bath, who lost the leadership of the Premiership last weekend, have lost two Challenge Cup finals but it is difficult to see them slipping up in this all-English tie against a side for whom the relegation trapdoor awaits. Bath, who already have a Premiership double over Leeds, rest Steve Borthwick but have five other England internationals in their pack, including the loose-head prop David Flatman whose career has been disrupted by a series of injuries. Stuart Hooper leads Leeds against the side he joins next season.

Newcastle v Castres

Today, 8pm, Kingston Park, Sky Sports 2

Newcastle's loss of form has seen them slip to 10th in the Premiership but there should be some salvation tonight against a side that doesn't travel well. Mathew Tait, last seen being helped off the field at Harlequins last week after De Wet Barry's late tackle, has recovered to play at full-back with Tom May moving to center alongside Jamie Noon who has recovered from injury. A subplot will be the head-to-head between two former All Black props, Newcastle's Carl Hayman and Kees Meeuws of Castres.

Worcester v Montpellier

Today, 3pm, Sixways

The Warriors face France's coming side but Montpellier, who had four players in Marc Lièvremont's French squad this spring, are without one of them, the France fly-half François Trinh-Duc, who has a wrist injury. Mike Ruddock has chosen the veteran Tony Windo at loose-head prop.