FORMER Worcester Rugby Club ace Dave Merlin makes a welcome return for Malvern on Saturday as the Spring Lane side face a physical test against Barkers Butts in Midlands One.

However, after a number of eye-catching performances in last weekend's friendly win over Burton, director of rugby Dave Robins admitted changes were a tough call to make.

"We agonised over selection this week," he said. "The back row especially was a problem because we saw some fine performances last week.

"However, in the end, we had to plump for a mixture of size and mobility. Merlin returns at number eight, while Alex Thomas just shaded the open side flanker spot for his potential ability to nail the playmaker at stand-off.

"As Ian White knows the Barkers side, having played with many of them as a colt, we have taken his reports on board, and he tells us that their fly half is crucial to their game plan. Steve Taylor resumes at blind side, so we can expect some ferocious tackling."

Darren Handy comes in at hooker while Matt Williams gets his first league start, replacing the injured Jon Owen.

With Richard Fleming still out, Simon Phillips continues at centre while Alistair Hills is on the bench after his fine showing against Burton. Paul Hart also subs after his return to form after injury.