SHAUN Perry returns to competitive action tomorrow night after a six-month lay-off when Worcester Cavaliers face the Army in a friendly at Sixways (7pm).

The former England scrum-half has been sidelined by long-running knee trouble since the Aviva Premiership fixture with Northampton Saints in mid-September.

However, the 34-year-old number nine returns to action as part of a team that contains a blend of experience and youth.

Back-rower Richard De Carpentier will captain the team and is joined by Sam Betty, Craig Gillies and Ceri Jones in the pack. Danny Gray will link up with Perry at half-back, while Joe Carlisle and Josh Matavesi will join forces in midfield.

Mark Hewitt, Warriors academy manager, said: “We’re excited about the game and the selection we have been able to make to face what is always a strong test against the Army.

“We have a number of young players involved or on the replacements bench who will really benefit from having the senior team members around them.

“Max Stelling will remain at Jersey on loan and will not be recalled for the game as we feel he will benefit from more game-time in the Championship, while Ben Howard and Andrew Boyce are away with England at age group level.”

Supporters are reminded entry on the night is by a suggested donation of £3 and money raised will be split between the Warriors Community Foundation and SSAFA Forces Help, a British-based charitable organisation set up to help former and serving members of the armed forces and their families or dependents.

Cavaliers: Nellany; Dickson, Matavesi, Carlisle, Watkins; Gray, Perry; Ceri Jones, Hayes, O’Donnell, Dacres, Gillies, Betty, de Carpentier, Taylor. Replacements: Fielding, Cosgrove, Currie, Perks, Chaudron, Hodgson, Wardle, Hughes, Elders.