Young Club International lock, Scott Sutherland, will start the match

Jamie Hunter returns to his familiar position of scrum-half following an injury to AJ MacFarlane last week while the prolific Frazier Climo moves from centre to his usual position of stand-off.

Ayr also welcome the availability of associated Glasgow Warriors hooker, Pat McArthur, who starts on the bench.

Andy Wilson and Steven Manning start on the wings, with Cammy Taylor moving to the bench.

Murray said: “It was disappointing to lose against Pontypridd last week—a game we should have won. Ponty were a strong, aggressive team and we expect Cardiff to be very similar. The players and management are looking forward to playing at Cardiff Arms Park.

“This will probably be our final game in this year’s British and Irish Cup. The players and coaches have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and have benefited immensely from the challenge and we hope that the opportunity will continue next year.

“The B & I Cup has allowed us to play high intensity matches at a time when the league is so broken up due to weather and internationals. This will be an advantage when we resume our cup and league programme.”

Ayr team to play Cardiff in the British & Irish Cup at Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday 6 March (kick-off 2.30pm)

15 Dougie Steele

14 Steven Manning
13 Ross Curle
12 Jonny McLung
11 Andy Wilson

10 Frazier Climo
9 Jamie Hunter

1 Gordon Reid
2 Stephen Adair
3 Gordon Sykes
4 Damien Kelly captain
5 Scott Sutherland
6 Jono Crossan
7 Paul Burke
8 Andy Dunlop

Replacements
16 Stuart Fenwick
17 Pat McArthur
18 Bill Lyburn
19 Glen Tippett
20 Blair McPherson
21 Cammy Taylor
22 John McCrossan

Referee: Darren Gamage (RFU)