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Northampton Saints unveil six changes ahead of their clash against Castres in the Investec Champions Cup round of 16 at Franklin’s Gardens. Springboks hopeful JJ van der Mescht and England international Fraser Dingwall are key inclusions. George Furbank continues as captain from full-back, flanked by Tommy Freeman and James Ramm on the wings. Tom Litchfield holds the outside centre position, while Dingwall makes his first start since returning from Six Nations duty, slotting in at 12. Anthony Belleau takes over at fly-half, replacing Fin Smith, who suffered a head injury against Saracens.
In the forwards, Callum Chick returns at number eight, moving Henry Pollock to openside flanker. Former Wallaby Josh Kemeny retains his spot at six. Van der Mescht joins Tom Lockett in the lock positions, with Luke Green, Craig Wright, and Danilo Fischetti in the front row. Curtis Langdon is on the bench as he works back to full fitness, while Cleopas Kundiona steps in for the injured Trevor Davison.
Castres counters with a formidable lineup, featuring ex-All Black Jack Goodhue. Theo Chabouni starts at full-back, with Enzo Herve and Jeremy Fernandez in the halves. A tough battle looms as both teams eye a crucial victory.
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