Inspirational Tincknell takes first step back in derby encounter

Tincknell has been out of action since February and lost five stone in weight while in hospital but trained in pre-season with the squad and will make his return to action in the British and Irish Cup encounter with Rotherham at Headingley Carnegie.

Carnegie head coach Diccon Edwards said: “James is ready to step up his rehabilitation and play rugby again. The way that James has coped with the whole experience is an inspiration for everyone at the club and we look forward to seeing him continue his rugby career over the coming weeks.”

Edwards is also set to hand on-loan fly-half Tommy Bell his first start.

Bell has moved to Leeds as part of the partnership with Sale Sharks and he will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Chris, who was a trophy winner with Leeds in 2005 when he scored a try in the Powergen Cup final win over Bath at Twickenham.

Leeds tonight field a side that includes 10 players who have graduated from the club’s academy as the Titans aim to repeat their recent league win over Carnegie.

Titans head coach Andre Bester will be looking to use his squad rotation system, which he believes will help his side cope with the long hard campaign.

“The British and Irish Cup has more importance than in previous years because it’s more for our development of players. Because it’s going to be played in midweek you have to carry a bigger squad than in previous seasons.” said Bester.

Doncaster Knights director of rugby Brett Davey fields a new-look team at Nottingham.

Five Sheffield Tigers players on loan at the Knights look set to start and another two players could be handed their full debuts.

Davey said: “The players who come in from the Tigers will hopefully impress and it is a very open window for them.”