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Leicester Tigers' pair ready for tough test in international clash against Maori All Blacks at Welford Road

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Two of Leicester Tigers' backs will be in the spotlight for tonight's big international clash.

Teenage star George Ford will be looking to bounce back against the Maori All Blacks at Welford Road.

Mat Tait also starts at full-back ending a 13-month injury nightmare.

A big crowd is expected for tonight's game (7.30), although tickets are still available.

Matt Smith, who plays at centre tonight, is backing his two team-mates to come through the game with flying colours.

The two backs will be under the microscope for very different reasons.

The game will give Ford a chance to bounce back from the rare off day he had with the boot against Northampton Saints, in which he missed five out of eight kicks at goal.

Former England man Tait makes his first start in a Tigers shirt in 13 months having recovered from a debilitating groin injury.

The 26-year-old former Newcastle and Sale back has managed just three appearances for the first team since arriving at Welford Road, in the summer of 2011.

His seven-minute cameo against Saracens on Friday night gave a hint of the natural running ability Tait possesses.

The power and pace of the Maoris means there will be no hiding place for either of them, but Smith says they will be up for the challenge.

"George still had a smile on his face after the Saints game and he will not let that bother him," said Smith.

"Days like that make you realise how good the good times are as a player. That makes you a much better person in the long run.

"George is a quality player who will relish the chance to get out there and play again.

"Mat gets on well with everyone and is a really nice lad. He was quiet when he first came but then, most people are.

"He has been back in full training and has had a couple of runs for the second team. He is looking sharp in training."

Tigers will be hoping for a repeat of the famous 22-17 win over the Springbok, in 2009.

On that night, two young Tigers backs were the stars – Manu Tuilagi and Ben Youngs.

Leicester Tigers' pair ready for tough test in  international clash against  Maori All Blacks at Welford Road


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