Harlequins club captain Rob Purdam has escaped a serious shoulder injury but is still waiting to learn just how long he will be stuck on the sidelines. The loose forward, 25, has avoided a fracture but will have further scans to determine the extent of the damage.
Hooker Neil Budworth is relishing a first-team return after playing for the U21 side following a 12-month lay-off.
"It's great to get through a game after so much time has been spent in rehab getting the leg strong again," he said.
The Wigan-born Budworth missed virtually the whole of last season after damaging his knee.
"I tested it out well last weekend and I came through the game," said the 24-year-old.
"It's as much a mental boost as anything because you are never really sure until you put the knee through actual match conditions."
MMIX
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