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New recruit Craig Clarke is expected to win his first competitive cap for Saturday’s interprovincial against Ulster if he come through the week’s fitness testing.

By Linley MacKenzie

The Pat Lam era begins in earnest on Saturday (5pm) when Connacht Rugby host Zebre in the first Rabodirect Pro 12 fixture of the 2013/2014 season.

Connacht open their home season on Saturday evening against English visitors Wasps at the Galway Sportsground, and for the first time supporters will get a peak at this new-look side under coach Pat Lam.

New Connacht Rugby coach Pat Lam has added a strong Kiwi flavour in completing his squad for next season.

With European rugby taking centre stage this weekend, Connacht and Treviso are locked into a battle of their own in their refixed RaboDirect Pro 12 clash in Italy this evening. Both sides are still looking for their best league finish and, on this occasion, Treviso have the upper hand. They are currently in seventh place with 43 points, while Connacht are in ninth with 36 points. A win for Connacht would ensure they cannot be caught by Edinburgh, who, just four points behind, host the Dragons next week, while Eric Elwood’s side host a Glasgow outfit looking for a home-semi. “This is a huge game for both sides,” says Elwood. “ Treviso are going for their best finish and we can still improve on our league standing for a third year in a row, so there is a lot riding on this game. A win for either side would ensure we go into the last match with a huge incentive.”

With European rugby taking centre stage this weekend, Connacht and Treviso are locked into a battle of their own in their refixed RaboDirect Pro 12 clash in Italy tomorrow evening.

Galway turned on its best weather for incoming Connacht coach Pat Lam who arrived in the city on Monday evening.

Connacht have a great opportunity to continue their momentum in the RaboDirect Pro 12 when they take on Newport Gwent Dragons in Wales this evening (7pm). Having moved up the table following their merited 18-3 victory over Treviso before the autumn international break, Connacht coach Eric Elwood will be keen to ensure they keep ahead of their opponents. Traditionally fixtures between the two clubs have been tight affairs with the home side edging the result, but last season’s 27 - 19 victory in Rodney Parade ensured Connacht achieved a season double over the Dragons.

Connacht return to RaboDirect Pro 12 action keen to continue their recent form against the Ospreys on Saturday evening in Wales. After two strong performances against both Zebre and Harlequins, it is essential Connacht maintain their momentum to get vital league points on the board. Elwood is expected to make changes for their visit to Swansea, and it is likely former South African Stormer Danie Poolman will finally make his first start for the province. Polman returned to training this week having returned from a week in Germany where he underwent treatment on his hamstring. His presence will be a welcome boost to the side, particularly with doubts over the fitness of Eoin Griffin who has been carrying an ankle injury. While a number of players are carrying knocks and bruisees, definately out of action are Andrew Browne, Gavin Duffy, Matt Healy, Mark McCrea, Paul O’Donohoe, Ethienne Reynecke and Kyle Tonetti.