PREM Rugby Cup final team news as Leicester Tigers and Exeter Chiefs bid for glory in historic clash at Welford Road

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The PREM Rugby Cup final sees Leicester Tigers and Exeter Chiefs face off on Sunday, live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Geoff Parling has selected a strong side as the Tigers face the exciting prospect of lifting a trophy on home soil at Welford Road. Exeter, meanwhile, are without Henry Slade and Greg Fisilau for the final, but are buoyed by the return of Wales international Christ Tshiunza.

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Leicester Tigers and Exeter Chiefs have named their respective matchday squads for what will be a thrilling and historic PREM Rugby Cup final on Sunday.

Tigers are hosting their first home final in over 113 years, and welcome the 2022/23 champions and last year's finalists to Welford Road.

Geoff Parling has named his side with several changes as they look for glory, having lost the 2023/24 final to Gloucester.

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In the pack, Charlie Clare and Hanro Liebenberg come into the side in place of Jamie Blamire and Tom Manz, respectively. Osian Thomas is on the bench.

A change in the backline sees Joseph Woodward coming in for Tom Threlfall, while Orlando Bailey moves to full-back as Woodward slots into the midfield.

"This home final is testament to the hard work from both staff and players throughout the various Prem Cup blocks, and we aim to put the best of ourselves out there on Sunday," Parling said.

"It’s pleasing to see the progression of our youngsters as the season has gone on, the number of debuts we have had, and how many homegrown players are in our matchday 23.

"We know what a quality side Exeter are, but it’s more about representing our club, fans, and our team-mates, including those players that are away on international duty, and putting the best of ourselves out there."

Harry Palmer retains his plays and continues a perfect record of appearing in every round of the competition this season alongside Tommy Reffell, who will captain the side.

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It is a dramatically different side for Exeter Chiefs, who are without Henry Slade and Greg Fisilau for the final, but are buoyed by the return of Wales international Christ Tshiunza to the squad.

After impressing so far this season, Campbell Ridl reclaims his starting spot on the wing with Paul Brown-Bampoe on the opposite side, and full-back flyer Josh Hodge at 15.

More change in the backline sees Will Haydon-Wood at fly-half, and Will Rigg returns to partner Ollie Batson.

Khwezi Mona is named to make his first start of the season and forms an all South-African front row with Ethan Burger and hooker Joseph Dweba.

Jimmy Roots will miss the game following a serious laceration to his ear, which has required stitches.

There is also a return for Italy international Ross Vintcent at No. 8.

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"There is a little bit of a different feeling around a final week," Rob Baxter said. "We’ve felt that in training that week, watching the boys run around with a great deal of energy.

"They’ve got smiles on their faces at the right time but they’re also judging well when they have to lock in at the right time.

"The environment has felt quite vibrant, which is especially exciting for a number of the younger guys who have never been in games like this before.

"It’s going to be an interesting game, but hopefully it brings out the best in us at Leicester on Sunday."

"Leicester are a competitive team, they’re fourth in the Gallagher PREM and top seed in this competition. Without doubt, they’ve got a consistent group, which is something we’ve challenged ourselves to be this season."

Watch and stream the Gallagher PREM and Premiership Women's Rugby live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

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