Josh Taumalolo starts his first Premiership game since November and takes over from Andy Reay in the centre, while Simon Keogh takes the place of Ugo Monye on the left wing with Ben Willis starting at scrum half. Paul Burke returns and replaces Andy Dunne at fly half.

In the pack, Jim Evans returns to the second row in place of Roy Winters and with Andre Vos in South Africa attending his sisters wedding, Luke Sherriff takes his place in the back row. Jason Leonard is on the bench.

"It is good to get back to Zurich Premiership action," said NEC Harlequins Chief Executive Mark Evans. "After a long break we now enter the final stage of the season and we have a lot to play for. In the Zurich Premiership we are looking for a top four finish, while next month we have the Parker Pen Challenge Cup semi-final to look forward to."

"Leicester, like us, will be looking to gain maximum points from the two back-to-back fixtures as they look to improve their league position. It is always enjoyable going to Welford Road and playing in front of such a knowledgeable and partisan crowd, and I am sure Friday evening will be no different. We are looking forward to the challenge."

The full team is as follows:

15. Gavin Duffy
14. George Harder
13. Josh Taumalolo
12. Mel Deane
11. Simon Keogh
10. Paul Burke
9. Ben Willis
1. Mike Worsley
2. Tani Fuga
3. Jon Dawson
4. Karl Rudzki
5. Jim Evans
6. Pat Sanderson
7. Luke Sherriff
8. Tony Diprose (Capt.)

Replacements:
16. Ace Tiatia
17. Jason Leonard
18. Ceri Jones
19. Bill Davison
20. Roy Winters
21. Scott Bemand
22. Andy Dunne