Ursache back to face Canada

Romania have named their team for their third Pool D match-up against Canada, to be played in Leicester on Tuesday. Head coach Lynn Howells has selected his strongest squad, reverting to virtually the same lineup that took on France in their tournament opener.

Powerhouse forward Valentin Ursache returns from a one game suspension to resume his duties on the blindside after missing the game against Ireland. Michael Wiringi is retained at flyhalf, getting the nod over Dan Dumbrava, who lined up at no10 against France. Adrian Apostol gives way to Ionut Botezatu in the only other change from the French challenge.

On the bench, Alexandru Tarus is reserve tighthead instead of Horatiu Pungea, and Howells has opted for two loose forward replacements, with Daniel Carpo sitting beside Stelian Burcea. Valentin Ursache will cover second row if required.

Romania’s strength remains very much in the forwards, with their front row seemingly genetically engineered for scrummaging. The backs have seen limited ball during the tournament, with Paula Kinikinilau the preferred crash ball option and Florin Vlaicu depended on heavily to kick the points.

ROMANIA
1 Mihaita Lazar 2 Otar Turashvili 3 Paulica Ion 4 Valentin Poparlan 5 Johan van Heerden 6 Valentin Ursache 7 Viorel Lucaci 8 Mihai Macovei (capt.) 9 Florin Surugiu 10 Michael Wiringi 11 Ionut Botezatu 12 Florin Vlaicu 13 Paula Kinikinilau 14 Madalin Lemnaru 15 Catalin Fercu

16 Andrei Radoi 17 Andrei Ursache 18 Alexandru Tarus 19 Daniel Carpo 20 Stelian Burcea 21 Valentin Calafeteanu 22 Adrian Apostol 23 Csaba Gal