Ospreys team to play Benetton Treviso

15 Dan Evans
14 Jeff Hassler
13 Andrew Bishop
12 Josh Matavesi
11 Eli Walker
10 Dan Biggar
9 Rhys Webb

1 Nicky Smith
2 Scott Baldwin
3 Aaron Jarvis
4 Lloyd Peers (Capt)
5 Rynier Bernardo
6 Joe Bearman
7 James King
8 Dan Baker

REPLACEMENTS

16 Sam Parry
17 Duncan Jones
18 Daniel Suter
19 Tyler Ardron
20 Morgan Allen
21 Martin Roberts
22 Sam Davies
23 Hanno Dirksen

Andrew Bishop makes his 200th Ospreys appearances, becoming only the second player to pass the landmark following on from Duncan Jones

Dan Evans, Josh Matavesi and Rynier Bernardo make their Ospreys debuts

Head Coach, Steve Tandy, commented:

"It's been a tough, long pre-season for everybody so we can't wait to get down to the real business on Friday night. We're all looking forward to the game and starting to put into practice some of the things we've worked hard on over the summer.

"It's a pretty exciting time for us as a group. If you look at the PRO12 with the new European qualification rules, every game will count from day one to the final weekend of the season and there is a real sense of jeopardy. That adds value to a competition, for supporters, players and sponsors alike, and I'm sure will take the PRO12 on to another level.

"A lot has been said about where we are at the moment, but we are confident about where we are going and what we are trying to do. In difficult circumstances we've had to make some tough decisions with the future of the Ospreys in mind, but we are putting together a group of players that can give this region a very bright future.

"This year we've retained the services of 16 players including some key individuals, we've recruited well, and along with a core of experience we have a young and vibrant group of talented players coming through the ranks who now have another year under their belt. When you look at the teams we sent out that beat the likes of Castres and Leinster last season, we have only lost one or two of those boys, so the challenge now is to turn those wins into consistent form week in, week out.

"It's going to be a challenging season, but I think that's exciting. We know where we want to take this team on and off the field and I'd like to think that the supporters are buying into what we are trying to do and will come with us, starting with Friday night."

Speaking about his 200th appearance for the Ospreys, Andrew Bishop commented:

"I'm really proud, really honoured, to be reaching this milestone in my career. Duncan is a great professional and it's only right that he gets that 200 first. It'll be difficult for anyone to overtake him, he just keeps going. To be the second person to do it is a great honour for me.

"I've had a good pre-season, I'm feeling pretty sharp, and I'm just looking forward to getting out on the pitch."

Ospreys Chairman, Roger Blyth, paid tribute to Bishop, saying:

"Andrew is what you would call a quiet leader, his actions prove an inspiration to his colleagues. He's not a shouter or constant talker but when he does speak he does so with real authority and experience which means others listen.

"To become only the second ever Osprey to make 200 appearances for the region is an incredible achievement that Andrew and his family should take huge pride in. He's not one to seek out or enjoy the limelight, but it is important that his contribution to the Ospreys cause over the last decade gets the plaudits it deserves. He is a true Osprey through and through. At 29 he still has a number of years ahead of him yet so we look forward to celebrating Andrew's 250 or even 300th appearance in the seasons to come."

The following players were unavailable for selection through injury:

Dmitri Arhip - Foot
Ashley Beck - Hip
Ryan Bevington - Groin
Sam Lewis - Knee
Tom Smith - Knee
Justin Tipuric - Shoulder

Forthcoming Fixtures

Fri 12 Sep - 7.35pm KO - NG Dragons v Ospreys - Rodney Parade - PRO12
Sun 21 Sep - 4.00pm KO - Ospreys v Edinburgh - Liberty Stadium - PRO12
Sat 27 Sep - 6.30pm KO - Munster v Ospreys - Thomond Park - PRO12
Fri 03 Oct - 7.35pm KO - Zebre v Ospreys - Stadio XXV Aprile - PRO12
Sun 12 Oct - 4.00pm KO - Ospreys v Cardiff Blues - Liberty Stadium - PRO12
Sun 18 Oct - 1.00pm KO - Ospreys v Treviso - Liberty Stadium - ERCC