Martin Johnson’s son, Henry, is set to face England tonight after being named in Leicester Tigers U23s’ side to take on England U20s at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
The young second-rower starts for Tigers in a fixture that also sees another academy graduate, George Marsh, line up for the opposition. Marsh captains the England U20s side after earning his first five caps at age-grade level and making his senior Leicester Tigers debut this season.
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Joseph Woodward captains the Tigers team from inside centre, having made five Gallagher Premiership appearances for the first team this season. Lewis Chessum is named vice-captain and partners Henry Johnson in the second row.
In the forward pack, Sam Williams also starts after making five Premiership appearances during the 2024/25 campaign. His most recent outing came in Tigers’ Derby Day victory over Northampton Saints at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.
There is also a welcome return on the bench for Emeka Ilione, who is in line for his first appearance after a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.
The fixture provides another opportunity for Leicester’s brightest young talents to test themselves against international opposition in front of the Tigers faithful at Welford Road.
Leicester Tigers Confirm SEVEN Major Departures Ahead of Summer Rebuild
With Leicester preparing for a new era, here is a closer look at the players moving on.
George Martin to Saracens
George Martin is undoubtedly the headline departure.
The England international has developed into one of the Premiership’s most formidable forwards and has become a regular fixture in Steve Borthwick’s national squad. At just 24, Martin is entering the prime years of his career and his move to Saracens is a major statement signing for the North London club.
His physicality, work rate and versatility across the second row and back row will be extremely difficult for Leicester to replace.
Nicky Smith to Sale Sharks
Welsh international prop Nicky Smith will remain in the Premiership after agreeing a move to Sale Sharks.
Smith spent one season with Leicester and brought a wealth of experience to the front row following an impressive international career with Wales.
Known for his scrummaging strength and reliability at set-piece time, he will add further depth to Alex Sanderson’s pack at Sale.
Hanro Liebenberg to the Bulls
The departure of Hanro Liebenberg is one of the most significant from a leadership perspective.
The South African back row forward captained Leicester and became one of the most respected figures at the club. His relentless work rate, toughness and consistency made him a fan favourite during his time at Welford Road.
Liebenberg will now return to South Africa to join the Bulls.
