Lewsey and Dawson to start against Biarritz

Gatland said: "I have selected Josh and Matt to start against Biarritz as both came through this week's tough training session very well. Lewsey did have a slight hamstring strain on Tuesday, but the Wasps' medical team have assured me he's fine to play. Fraser's rehabilitation from an ankle operation has taken a little longer than originally anticipated, but he's ready to resume duty and will start from the bench. Craig Dowd could also start from the bench but will undergo a fitness test on Sunday morning.

"We know Biarritz have some fantastic players in every position but our boys are up for the challenge. The backrow battle between the sides is something to look forward too. We have won our last five games and last weekend's win at The Rec, I feel, will give us the perfect platform for this game. We enjoy playing tough back-to-back games and they don't come much tougher than this."

The only other change in the backline is Alex King starting at flyhalf with James Brookes selected on the bench.

The forwards are unchanged from the side that beat Bath at The Rec last Saturday. However, on the bench Jonny Barrett comes in for Trevor Leota. The big hooker returned to the training ground this morning after his operation to reattach his left ear following Tuesday night's incident at Oxford University. The Samoan was in good spirits and said he was looking forward to getting back to training.

Speaking about his return Lewsey said: "I'm really eager to get back to playing rugby and looking forward to Sunday. My broken hand has healed very well. The beginning of this week was frustrating as I had some tightness in my hamstring, which prevented me from getting a run out against Oxford University but after this morning's session all seems well. Defending the Heineken is something as a club we want to achieve. Leicester won it back-to-back a few seasons ago, and we hope to mirror that. It all begins this weekend with the best club tournament in the world."

London Wasps: M Van Gisbergen; J Lewsey, P Richards, A Erinle, T Voyce; A King, M Dawson; T Payne, P Greening, W Green, J Hart, R Birkett, J Worsley, J O'Connor, L Dallaglio (capt)
Replacements: J Barrett, A McKenzie or C Dowd, M Lock, J Haskell, H Biljon, J Brooks, F Waters,
Biarritz Olympique: Referee: Alan Lewis (Ireland)