Front row crisis returns

By Jason Harris (filed: 16/10/03)
October 16 2003

Saracens are facing a front row crisis after two untimely injuries to prop Aston Croall and hooker James Parkes. With Raphael Ibanez and Robbie Russell still on World Cup duty in Australia, the Men in Black have just one fit hooker for the visit to Bath on Sunday. Parkes has been sidelined due to a neck injury sustained at Leeds Tykes last weekend and Croall has been the victim of a horrendous triple break to his leg while playing for Old Albanians.

Though Joe Ross is the only fit hooker, Johnny Marsters could well provide cover has he has played there before, including for his previous club Swansea.

The propping situation is not as dire as last season when Sarries had to take Colm Hannon and Andy Kershaw on loan as Kershaw, Emiliano Bergamaschi, Marsters and Ben Broster are all available. However, an injury to one of those props could cause a headache for coach Rod Kafer.

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