England scrum-half returned from injury to a side on the crest of a wave and will hope to catch Steve Borthwick’s eye

H

arry Randall and Bristol enter the new year with high hopes. The scrum-half has returned to fitness ahead of schedule after hamstring surgery and marked his 150th Bears appearance in the win against Newcastle last Saturday.

Pat Lam’s side approach the Prem encounter with Sale at Ashton Gate on Friday after five straight victories, sitting fourth in the table, their attractive style having clicked. A fresh assault on the playoffs looks likely.

Randall played a part in England’s winning tour to the Americas last summer – and a return to club action is a chance to restate his case for international selection before the Six Nations.