And Ospreys boss Sean Holley warned: “We do not intend to surrender the trophy lightly.”

Centre Gavin Henson, wing Shane Williams, prop Adam Jones and lock Ian Evans all make the Madejski Stadium trip, while Wales captain Ryan Jones is on bench duty.

Full-back Lee Byrne and lock Alun-Wyn Jones - two more likely starters against the Springboks next week - are rested.

Cup holders the Ospreys will guarantee themselves a third successive Anglo-Welsh semi-final appearance if they topple Irish.

Holley added: “London Irish are a strong side with a very good home record, so we realise the size of the challenge ahead of us.

“Irish play some of the most attack-minded rugby in the Guinness Premiership, and they have a well-drilled, effective set-piece.

“We know that the outcome of the group is in our own hands.

“We’ve been able to select a 22 that is fresh and confident, with many of the players having points to prove - be it in terms of Ospreys selection or international selection.

“We certainly do not intend to surrender the trophy lightly. We are proud of our record in this tournament, having lost just once in 13 games, and are certainly targeting a third successive trip to Twickenham.”