Worcester back row Netani Talei faces his former club Doncaster Knights

Worcester Warriors have named a strong side for their opening pre-season encounter against Doncaster Knights at Castle Park.

Pat Sanderson will skipper the side, and is joined in the back row by Netani Talei, who returns to his former club.

The back division includes Sam Tuitupou, Dale Rasmussen and Rico Gear, while Joe Carlisle is given a starting spot at fly-half.

All Black Greg Rawlinson joins Craig Gillies in the second row.

Warriors director of rugby Mike Ruddock says it is an important game in the build-up to the new season.

"Doncaster will prove a real challenge at their ground and they will be particularly determined to do well, because their former director of rugby Clive Griffiths will be heading our coaching team," he told the club website.

"We have selected a very strong starting team, but there are a number of youngsters that will be seen either in the starting line-up or from the bench.

"This game provides us with the first opportunity to play under the new laws and we are very much looking forward to the challenge that they bring."