Slade centre stage as Bath and Exeter set for Premiership semi-final
Finn Russell and Henry Slade's Bath and Exeter teams will face each other in the second Premiership semi-final, following Exeter Chiefs' 32-12 victory over Saracens, which secured a play-off spot for the Chiefs at Saracens' expense.
Henry Slade's influential performance echoed memories of his 2017 Premiership semi-final kick that set up a last-minute winning try for Exeter. Nearly a decade later, Slade's impact was pivotal in Saturday's win. The 33-year-old excelled out wide, scored the try initiating Exeter's second-half surge, and made a crucial try-saving tackle on Rotimi Segun before halftime.
Slade, who earned his latest of 74 England caps against Argentina in November, expressed frustration at not playing during England's recent Six Nations campaign. With other centres like Ollie Lawrence and Max Ojomoh seemingly out of favour, Slade's current form is pushing him back into consideration for international duty.
"If I was picking an England team, I'd have Henry Slade in there," said Exeter attack coach Dave Walder. "I see him every day and I know what he's capable of. He's doing everything you would expect of a player who's not being picked by playing well week-in, week-out on both sides of the ball."
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live at Sandy Park, Slade remarked,
"You don't realise how much you miss something until you don't have it. Maybe we took it for granted all those years ago, it is very special to have it back. I feel good, I'm in the shape of my life, still feeling fresh and good."
Slade was referring to Exeter's play-off qualification, but his words could equally apply to a potential England starting position.
Bath await Finn Russell's return ahead of Chiefs clash
Finn Russell was present in the stands during Bath's narrow 24-22 victory over Leicester Tigers at the Recreation Ground, a win that secured Bath a home semi-final against Exeter.
Russell, the Scottish fly-half signed on a significant contract for key matches, is currently sidelined with a calf injury. Bath coach Johann van Graan opted not to risk him against Leicester, given the secured play-off spot and the player's ongoing recovery. Argentina's Santi Carreras filled the fly-half role effectively in his absence.
Van Graan provided an update on Russell's condition post-match:
"He's in a great place, but he's not perfect. He'll have to get through the week, but let's see on Friday what the team is for the [Exeter] game."
Bath's forward pack, notably prop Thomas du Toit who scored a hat-trick, was instrumental in the win. Facing Exeter will require Bath to have all aspects of their game functioning at full capacity.
Northampton reach historic 100 regular-season tries despite defensive concerns
Northampton Saints became the first team in Premiership history to surpass 100 regular-season tries when scrum-half Jonny Weimann scored early in their match at The Stoop. They finished the season with 104 tries, exceeding their own previous record of 99 set in 2021-22.
This achievement is notable as it was accomplished in six fewer games than the prior record season, due to the absence of teams like Worcester, London Irish, and Wasps, who folded after 2021-22.
Despite resting many key players in the match against Harlequins, Northampton still demonstrated attacking threat. They now prepare for a high-stakes derby semi-final against Leicester Tigers at Franklin's Gardens.
However, defensive frailties remain a concern. Saints have conceded more tries than any other top-six side. Earlier in the season, they narrowly defeated Tigers 32-26 with a five-try performance. They will rely on their attacking prowess and the return of rested players to overcome Leicester, who recently defeated them 41-17.
The semi-final coincides with the Canada vs Bosnia-Herzegovina World Cup football match, but rugby fans anticipate an exciting contest.
Willis bids farewell as Saracens miss out on top four
Tom Willis topped Saracens' statistics at Sandy Park with 44 metres gained from 14 carries, showcasing his all-action back row capabilities despite the team's 32-12 loss to Exeter.
Other notable departures include Tom Lawday, who scored the winning try for Harlequins against Northampton after seven years at the club, and Raffi Quirke, who signed off with a try assist before moving to Newcastle.
Willis, aged 27, is regarded as one of the Premiership's premier back-row players. He leads the league in carries, offloads, and defenders beaten, while ranking highly in turnovers won and tackles made.
Despite his central England contract worth over £160,000, Willis has not featured internationally this season since announcing his move to European champions Bordeaux-Begles. England coach Steve Borthwick has focused on developing other players ahead of Willis's departure.
Willis's dynamic playing style would have strengthened England's underwhelming Six Nations campaign. With potential successors like Alex Dombrandt, Alfie Barbeary, Chandler Cunningham-South, and Emeka Ilione yet to reach his level, Willis's move to France may be a future source of regret for England.
The Premiership final promises a grand spectacle
The Premiership final, scheduled for 20 June at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium, is on track for another sellout crowd.
The finalists will compete for a newly designed trophy weighing 26 kilograms, making it the heaviest major trophy in British sport. Organisers are preparing a grand entrance for the trophy and plan to introduce ringwalk-style team entrances.
Additionally, a repeat of the 2024 innovation—where two opposing players are mic'ed up during the match—is anticipated to enhance the viewing experience. The 'director's commentary' version of Northampton's win over Bath two years ago, featuring Fraser Dingwall and Finn Russell, remains highly regarded.
