RUGBY: Barkley in 10 shirt for final match (From Wiltshire Times)

RUGBY: Barkley in 10 shirt for final match

12:07pm Friday 28th September 2012 in Sport

OLLY Barkley will start his final game for Bath at fly-half in the Aviva Premiership clash against Sale Sharks at the Recreation Ground tomorrow, (2.15pm).

Barkley, who leaves to join Top 14 side Racing Metro 92 after the game, has amassed more than 230 appearances in Bah colours and scored more than 2160 points.

He rejoins Michael Claassens in the half-backs, with Stephen Donald switching to inside centre, partnering Dan Hipkiss in the midfield. Tom Biggs and Kyle Eastmond line up on the wings, as Nick Abendanon starts at full-back.

In the pack, David Wilson is back at tighthead prop, with Paul James handed the loosehead shirt. Lee Mears continues at hooker.

Dave Attwood makes his first start of the season in the second row, combining with captain Stuart Hooper. Carl Fearns, Ben Skirving and Simon Taylor complete the line-up in the backrow.

Barkley said: “I’ve had an amazing time here and I’ve made some fantastic memories, played in some amazing teams and met some wicked people, and I leave with nothing but absolute love for this place and these people.”

"The task for me now is really to just concentrate on the game. It’s a big occasion for me and for my family, but most important is getting four points.

"We need to get back on the horse after losing the last two on the bounce and have been working very hard to right the wrongs. It’s not about me leaving, it’s about the four points, and if I can say goodbye having helped the team to a win, then I’ll be happy.”

Bath: 15. Nick Abendanon, 14. Kyle Eastmond, 13. Dan Hipkiss, 12. Stephen Donald, 11. Tom Biggs, 10. Olly Barkley, 9. Michael Claassens, 1. Paul James, 2. Lee Mears, 3. David Wilson, 4. Stuart Hooper (capt), 5. Dave Attwood, 6. Carl Fearns, 7. Ben Skirving, 8. Simon Taylor.

Replacements: 16 Ross Batty, 17 Nathan Catt, 18 Anthony Perenise, 19 Dominic Day, 20 Will Skuse, 21 Mark McMillan, 22 Sam Vesty, 23 Jack Cuthbert.

MORE BATH NEWS & REACTION IN FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES

Comments are closed on this article.