Glasgow Warriors head coach Dave Rennie has made sweeping changes to the starting fifteen who thrashed Southern Kings last weekend for his team's trip to Zebre.

Rennie has made eight changes from last week’s side, with Ryan Wilson returning to captain the side in what will be his first outing since his return from the World Cup last month. The full-back is one of five internationalists returning to the starting line-up, with hooker Fraser Brown, lock Scott Cummings, centre Sam Johnson and back-three man Tommy Seymour also back in action.

Chris Fusaro and Kyle Steyn will make their first appearances of the campaign and Ratu Tagive also comes in.

Warriors have had a mixed start to the season having won two and lost three of their opening five matches. And so Rennie is delighted to welcome back the Scotland stars who will, he hopes, serve to steady the ship somewhat, particularly with the European Challenge Cup on the horizon.

“It’s great because they’re good men, they’re passionate about the club and they bring a lot of experience,” said Rennie.

“So it’s been really good (to have them back). They’re all keen to play a bit of footie. Round the corner is a big European game although we’ll not be looking past this weekend at this stage. But it’s a good opportunity for these guys to get some game-time post World Cup.”

Rennie is particularly pleased to see the return of Scott Cummings, who he was quick to heap praise upon.

“Scott was one of our best players in the play-offs (last year) and he’s been one of our best players on the field. It was great for him to get an opportunity at the RWC and it’ll be great to see him kick on.”