The Hurricanes return to league action this weekend, when they make the trip across the water to Gosport & Fareham RFC, to take on the 2nd XV for the first time this season. Both teams are having polar opposite seasons currently, with the visitors sitting 2nd in the league, whilst the hosts currently occupy the bottom spot. Nevertheless, this will still be a stern test for Sandown & Shanklin, as they look to continue their impressive winning form in the league.

Last time out, the Hurricanes were defeated in the Junior Vase by Gillingham Anchorians, however 1st XV captain Sam Flux believes there is no better way of getting over the cup exit, than getting back out on the field and winning again this weekend.
Sandown & Shanklin will be without their captain on the field this week, as Flux recovers from an injury sustained against Fordingbridge and was aggravated in the cup loss last weekend. The Hurricanes are also without fly-half Cameron Mitchell, who is still recovering from his ankle injury, also sustained in the Fordingbride clash. Adding to this, the 1st XV will also be missing the services of regulars Ben Shannon, Sam Tyson, Charles Little and Damian Seder. Whilst also the returning Miselbach brothers are also ruled out due to injury.
This presents the opportunity to young second row Jack Winter to make a start on Saturday, joined by Henry Bagnall returning from injury and Sam Branston, to make his first appearance of the season. Centre Jack Wedderkop also returns to the lineup after recovering from a shoulder niggle that kept him out of the cup fixture.

In Flux's absence, the captaincy will be handed down to his vice captain, Zak Chiverton. "Zak has been improving his game this season and building upon the performances he put in last year, with understanding the game from other players perspectives. He has been a leader on and off the field, and with taking on the captaincy this weekend, will be another good opportunity for him to continue developing as an integral voice in the team and with the management."