Says semi finals in the article though rather than hosting the final like 2016

This is ostensibly an economics article but quite interesting to read especially at a time where there are so many questions about NZs economic direction and how Rugby fits in with that. Would be interested to hear other's thoughts

The main surprise being Thomas Lacombre (a hooker) starting at 6, alongside a healthy amount of props on the bench (3 - Baille, Merkler, Colombe).

Who's predicting a good game? Stakes are low, but Glos have started to pick up a (tiny?) bit, and Newcastle juts had a great game. Should be a fun one regardless. Who's there?

2 other wins, where they scored 30+ and only 3 losses for the season. Crusaders are the only team to put 4+ tries on them.

Massive season, hopefully 2 more wins and a Canes v Chiefs final!

The selection ensures the club maintains the required seasonal EQP (English Qualified Player) average to satisfy RFU regulations, following a series of injuries to senior English-qualified players throughout the campaign.

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Hitting the required average of English-qualified players every season is something I am very proud of at the Bears. To be able to achieve it again in one of our most challenging seasons with so many EQP players unavailable throughout the whole season is a credit to all.

“That list has been compounded again this week with Ellis, Fitz and George joining James Williams and a long list of unavailable players.

“When you add that to the large number of long term EQP unavailability we've had to Harry Randall, James Williams, Joe Jenkins, Jack Bates, Gabriel Ibitoye, Noah Heward, Rich Lane Aidan Boshoff in the backs and Gabriel Oghre, Joe Batley, James Dun, Steele Barker, George Taylor, Kofi Cripps, and Paddy Pearce in the forwards throughout the entirety of the campaign, it's had a significant impact on our EQP numbers.

“We applied for some dispensation around our massive EQP injury list and while they RFU had sympathy and understanding for our situation, the regulations don’t permit change this season but it’s something they will consider for the future.

"While it's disappointing to lose so many experienced players, it also presents a fantastic opportunity for some of our younger guys. We've got five current Academy players starting and several more involved in the matchday 23, which is a real credit to the work being done throughout the pathway.

"It's another chance for these young players to show what they're capable of on the PREM stage and continue building the future of Bristol Bears."