Gloucester Rugby vs Saracens
Ben Baker’s Prediction (Gloucester Rugby Reporter):
After a disappointing 2023/24 campaign, Gloucester will be looking for a fresh start with new additions, including Welsh halfbacks Tomos Williams and Gareth Anscombe, and the return of Christian Wade. However, Baker believes Saracens’ strength will be too much for Gloucester. “I expect Mark McCall’s Saracens to pick up a relatively comfortable win against Gloucester by about 15-20 points,” he says, pointing to Saracens’ quality, “especially in the pack.”
Jon Page’s Prediction (Saracens Reporter):
Jon Page shares a similar outlook, predicting Saracens will continue their strong form. “Premiership semi-finalists Saracens travel to Kingsholm full of confidence after an unbeaten pre-season calendar, and a 24-3 win in this fixture last year,” says Page. While Gloucester’s new halfback pairing offers hope, he expects Saracens to prevail. “Saracens to win by 10 points.”
Sale Sharks vs Harlequins
Tom Sansom’s Prediction (Chief Rugby Writer):
Harlequins face a tough away test against Sale, having won just once there since 2015. “Harlequins have one of their toughest Premiership away days up first,” says Sansom. With Joe Marler out due to injury, Sansom predicts a high-scoring encounter. “I’m going with the home side in this one, but it is going to be a close, high-scoring affair.” He expects Sale to edge it, predicting a 38-33 win.
George Davis’s Prediction (Harlequins Reporter):
George Davis highlights the physicality Harlequins will face, especially with the absence of powerhouse centre André Esterhuizen. “Sale new boy Waisea Nayacalevu could make his debut against an Esterhuizen-less away side,” Davis says, warning of a tough weekend ahead for Harlequins.