Johann van Graan's rebuild of Bath since his arrival in 2022 has been nothing short of remarkable. The South African coach has transformed the team from the bottom to a position agonizingly close to the top, nearly securing a sensational victory at Twickenham against Northampton in June, despite Beno Obano's early dismissal. Van Graan expressed satisfaction that the team had given their all, but now the question is, can they go one step further? The signing of Springbok prop Thomas du Toit has been a huge success, with the player scoring 12 tries in 25 matches last season. Finn Russell, the Scotland fly-half, has also seamlessly integrated into the team. The former Worcester captain Ted Hill and England's Sam Underhill provide a powerful presence in the back row, while Van Graan's ability to bring out the best in his players continues to improve. Exciting times are ahead, with opening fixtures against Northampton and Leicester set to set the tone for the season.
Pat Lam's Bristol side has struggled with inconsistency in recent seasons, but when their attack clicks, they are virtually unstoppable. The stop-start nature of their progress under the former Samoa international makes them difficult to predict, but fans are hopeful for tangible progress, such as their Challenge Cup win in 2019-20. They may find it challenging to compete with last season's top sides (Saints, Bath, Sale, Saracens), while Quins and Leicester aim to surpass the Bears this time. Financial pressures in the Premiership are a significant concern, as highlighted by Bristol's chief operating officer, Tom Tainton, who stated that the current path is unsustainable.
Rob Baxter's coaching acumen was evident last season when an inexperienced Exeter squad achieved some impressive results both domestically and in Europe. Finishing seventh in the Premiership was a disappointment, but it reflects the progress made within a young playing group, expertly managed by the league's longest-serving senior coach. The resurgence of England's Henry Slade has been a boost, but the Chiefs will be without Slade for the opening months due to a shoulder operation, and Wales captain Dafydd Jenkins is also sidelined. Sandy Park is no longer the impenetrable fortress it once was, and another season of rebuilding rather than challenging at the top seems likely.
George Skivington's men were overwhelmed in last season's Challenge Cup final, but consistency across the league season must be the focus this year. This feels like a make-or-break season for Skivington, whose early goodwill has waned due to the team's erratic performance. The arrival of Christian Wade from Racing 92, following Louis Rees-Zammit's departure, adds an interesting dynamic. Wade aims for a title and the Premiership's all-time tries record, but success will depend on Skivington's ability to get the team firing every week.
Harlequins' DNA is built on scintillating attacking play and high-tariff offloading. However, director of rugby Billy Millard and his coaching team understand that relying solely on scoring more than the opposition is not a recipe for sustained success. The quality of Harlequins' defense will determine their fate this season. The departure of André Esterhuizen in midfield is a loss, but the arrival of Leigh Halfpenny bolsters the back division. Nick Evans is firmly established as attack coach, and the development of Marcus Smith into a well-rounded Test fly-half is crucial.
Michael Cheika's arrival at Welford Road in June was met with high expectations. If he can achieve his goal of delivering his best coaching yet, Leicester's rivals should be worried. Cheika's CV speaks for itself, but his demanding and temperamental style risks becoming outdated. The former Argentina head coach has a strong relationship with Julián Montoya and will work with talented players like George Martin, Tommy Reffell, and Freddie Steward. The departure of Jasper Wiese to Japan is a blow, but if Cheika can bring out the best in his squad, they will be a formidable force.
Newcastle Falcons had a dismal season last year, losing 18 out of 18 matches and finishing 27 points behind second-bottom Gloucester. Director of rugby Steve Diamond believes a focus on fitness in pre-season will improve discipline and make the Falcons harder to beat. Diamond's experience offers grounds for optimism, and Newcastle's improvement would benefit the Premiership's reputation. The suspension of relegation was a blow to the sport, but a fresh start and the potential of players like Kieran Wilkinson and Adam Radwan provide reasons for hope.
Northampton Saints' title win last season was richly deserved, but the margins were tight, with only six points separating the top five. The new Professional Game Partnership deal between the Rugby Football Union and clubs will be interesting to watch, especially regarding its impact on clubs with more England players. Alex Mitchell's energy and vision at scrum-half have made him England's No 1, but recent history suggests Saints may struggle to repeat their title success.
Alex Sanderson's Sale Sharks finished third last season and will be aiming for the final next summer. The forward-thinking coach signed a new three-year deal, and the team celebrates 25 years as the Sharks. Manu Tuilagi's departure for Bayonne is a loss, but the arrival of Waisea Nayacalevu from Toulon adds depth. A mid-season dip in form last time proved costly, but there is no reason to believe Sale cannot continue to excel, especially with George Ford orchestrating the attack.
Mark McCall, Saracens' director of rugby, highlighted Maro Itoje's DNA when announcing him as Owen Farrell's successor as captain. Itoje has been in top form, but the departures of Mako Vunipola and Farrell are significant. With players like Jamie George, Ben Earl, and Elliot Daly, Saracens' squad is not short on big-game experience. The return of Rhys Carré is a welcome boost, and despite the loss of marquee names, McCall's teams are always competitive.
