London Irish will parade new signing Mathew Morahan, a 23-yearold Australian from Queensland, who can play second row, number eight, or blindside flanker. Following the home league defeat by Saracens, Niall Hogan, Nick Burrows, Justin Fitzpatrick and Rob Kellam all return to take on league leaders Newcastle who are still without Nick Popplewell.

Harlequins captain Keith Wood is fit again after suffering a concussion while playing for Ireland before Christmas. He will play against Saracens in the league on Sunday. Former England captain Will Carling finally announced his retirement from rugby yesterday.

Carling, who skippered his country 59 times, said: "Retirement from the game is a big wrench, but it's the right decision for me."

"Although I've been flattered by the interest of other clubs, Quins is my club and I've always said I would end my playing days here, he said."