New Rugby Paper Roundup: Who wins the Prem semis? Northampton Saints v Leicester Tigers & Bath v Exeter Chiefs

In this week’s episode of The Rugby Paper Roundup, Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by Northampton Chronicle rugby writer Tom Vickers to preview a mouthwatering Gallagher Premiership semi-final weekend.

Friday night sees one of English rugby’s fiercest rivalries take centre stage as Northampton Saints host Leicester Tigers at Franklin’s Gardens with a place in the Premiership final on the line.

We revisit the iconic 2014 semi-final between the sides, discuss whether this remains the biggest rivalry in the Premiership, and examine why history suggests the winner could go all the way and lift the trophy.

With Saints having topped the table and successfully navigated a season of rotation, injuries and international call-ups, we assess the outstanding job Phil Dowson has done, the impact of Anthony Belleau, and how Northampton have maintained their consistency despite spending periods without Fin Smith.

We also discuss…

• George Furbank’s impending departure and the motivation it brings
• Why Saints have flourished despite heavy squad rotation
• ⁠Leicester Tigers‘ remarkable rise under Geoff Parling
• The clash of styles between Northampton’s attack and Leicester’s set-piece power
• ⁠Tommy Freeman’s ability to deliver on the biggest stage
• The importance of Franklin’s Gardens under the Friday night lights

Bath v Exeter Chiefs

Attention then turns to Saturday’s second semi-final as defending champions Bath host Exeter Chiefs at The Recreation Ground.

We discuss…

• ⁠Whether Exeter are the most dangerous fourth-placed side in recent Premiership history
• Henry Slade’s outstanding season
• ⁠Bath’s title credentials and attacking firepower

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WATCH MORE: New Rugby Paper Roundup: Play off chaos! Exeter Chiefs v Saracens Prem shootout + URC semi finals