Cracknell to miss Quins clash as race for play-offs hots up

OLLY Cracknell has been ruled out of today’s Gallagher Premiership clash against Harlequins at Mattioli Woods Welford Road (3.05pm).

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Back-rower Cracknell failed a head injury assessment in last weekend's impressive 36-19 win at Bristol Bears.

Kyle Hatherell has been called up into the starting side alongside Hanro Liebenberg and Tommy Reffell in the back row.

Tigers head coach Michael Cheika also makes two changes on the bench for the round 14 clash.

Veteran prop Dan Cole and lock Harry Wells are named among the replacements in place of Will Hurd and Matt Rogerson.

This is the first of three massive home games for Tigers in the battle to win silverware and give Cheika a memorable send-off.

Tigers and Harlequins sit just eight points apart in the league ladder, with both fighting for a place in the play-offs.

Cheika’s side come into the match on the back of a dominant, bonus-point away win over Bristol, while Harlequins suffered a heavy 43-29 home defeat at the hands of Sale Sharks.

Harlequins have made two changes for their visit to the East Midlands.