Bath set for derby war of attrition

Bath are poised for a battle of attrition in tonight's west country derby against Gloucester at the Recreation Ground.

The visitors have lost two of their four Aviva Premiership games but Bath's forwards coach Martin Haag expects them to be inspired by their challenging opening to the season.

"Gloucester have had a tough start and we know what that's like," he said.

"It makes you even more determined to win the big games, so the important thing for us is to get that win.

"If you look through their team, they've got some superb individuals.

"Local derbies are always tough and the weather forecast is not great so it should be a good battle on all fronts."

Bath make just one change following their 31-16 victory over Sale with Matt Banahan replacing Tom Biggs on the left wing.

England centre Mike Tindall returns to captain Gloucester after being named as a replacement in the 22-20 win against Wasps.

England fly-half Charlie Hodgson is back for Sale's clash with Wasps at Edgeley Park.

Hodgson, the England fly-half, will be making his first appearance since undergoing shoulder surgery during the summer.