“Ashley is one of our Academy products who has come through the system and has very good leadership qualities,” said Head Coach Paul Turner. “He captained the region against Gloucester in the EDF Cup and led the side admirably.”
The match gives vital pitch-time for the squad in the run-up to their Magners League clash against Connacht at Rodney Parade on 26 April (5:05pm).
Jason Tovey moves to fullback and James Arlidge takes on the number ten shirt whilst Duane Goodfield could make his first appearance of the season from the bench, as captain Tom Willis is rested alongside Welsh international Luke Charteris.
“Automatic qualification for the Heineken Cup is our aim going into these final matches of the season and the Connacht game is going to be crucial,” added Turner.
“Postponed matches and the Six Nations have left our players in need of game time and this fixture is a perfect opportunity to prepare for Connacht.”
Dragons Team for Worcester: Jason Tovey, Richard Fussell, Rhodri Gomer-Davies, Ashley Smith (Capt), Aled Brew, James Arlidge, Wayne Evans, Huw Gustafason, Steve Jones, Rhys Thomas, Adam Jones, Sean Tomes, Hoani Macdonald, Grant Webb, Joe Bearman.
Replacements From: Duane Goodfield, Nigel Hall, Jamie Corsi, Andrew Hall, Dan Lydiate, Jamie Ringer, Lewis Evans, Alex Walker, Shaun Connor, Rory Sidey, Gareth Wyatt, Martyn Thomas, Kevin Morgan.
