In the forwards, Brett Wilkinson and Ray Ofisa are included once again, as Connacht bid to start their 2009 campaign at the Sportsground on a winning note.

Connacht coach Michael Bradley has appealed for the westerners' fans to turn out in force for what is a vital league encounter.

"The crowd were superb against Munster. They really got behind the team and made a big difference," he said.

"We are hoping to create the same atmosphere for every home match.

"This will be a big test against the Scarlets, especially as they have so many Welsh internationals on duty but we are playing well at the moment and are confident of another win."

CONNACHT Squad (v Scarlets): Backs (11) - Liam Bibo, Kieran Campbell, Fionn Carr, Mel Deane, Gavin Duffy, Andy Dunne, Ian Keatley, Keith Matthews, Frank Murphy, Troy Nathan, Niva Ta'auso.

Forwards (14) - Andrew Browne, Sean Cronin, Andrew Farley, Adrian Flavin, David Gannon, Ronan Loughney, John Lyne, Mike McCarthy, Robbie Morris, John Muldoon, Ray Ofisa, Colm Rigney, Michael Swift, Brett Wilkinson.