Benazzi ruled out of Wildcard first leg tie

By Jason Harris
May 14 2003

Saracens lock Abdelatif Benazzi has been ruled out of the first leg Zurich Wildcard tie against Leeds Tykes after a catalogue of injuries picked up in recent weeks.

The 78-times capped French international has 10 stitches in a gash above his eye, an arm in a sling and a damaged knee, according to reports.

Wayne Shelford was qouted as saying "Abdel is in pieces yet would love to be playing against Leeds. But we're going to work with him and you could see him in the team for the second leg on Sunday." [18 May]

Shelford has another selection dilemma as he ponders whether he should rest captain Kyran Bracken and start Canadian international half back Morgan Williams.

According to the Evening Standard website, in-form wing Richard Haughton is to be rested. His place in the threequarters is to be taken by Cardiff-bound Tom Shanklin.

There is some good news, however. Saracens are able to boast an all-international front row after the return of Christian Califano from a rib injury. The French prop will join Scotland hooker Robbie Russell and England man David Flatman at the coalface.

Leeds welcome back Dan Scarbrough after a lengthy injury absence, but he will start on the bench as Phil Davies hands his fullback place to Diego Albanese.

A full preview of the match will be here on thesaracens.com very soon.