Northampton Saints Make Five Changes for Sale Sharks Clash
Northampton Saints head to Sale Sharks with a reshuffled lineup, aiming to secure their first season double over the Sharks since the 2016/17 season. Head coach Phil Dowson has made five changes to the side that defeated Scarlets 43-28 in the last round, as they prepare for the final league match before the 2026 Guinness Six Nations gets underway.
Key Changes and Team News
The changes see Alex Coles, Tom Pearson, Callum Chick, Rory Hutchinson, and George Hendy come into the side. Hutchinson's return is particularly significant, as he was named in Scotland's squad for the Six Nations this week. His comeback allows Tommy Freeman to shift back onto the wing, where he will join Italy's Edoardo Todaro, who made a league-high 149 metres in the last round. Hendy takes up the position at fullback.
Midfield Adjustments
Fraser Dingwall captains Saints from the centres, partnering Hutchinson in the midfield. This adjustment aims to strengthen the team's presence in the middle of the park, where Hutchinson's experience and recent international recognition could be a key asset.
Half-Backs and Front Row
In the half-backs, British & Irish Lion Alex Mitchell partners Frenchman Anthony Belleau for the third week running. Up front, Emmanuel Iyogun and Trevor Davison start at loosehead and tighthead prop respectively, with Robbie Smith joining them as hooker. Smith's inclusion adds depth and experience to the front row.
Second Row and Back Row
England lock Coles returns to Northampton’s second row, joining in-form JJ Van Der Mescht. In the back row, returning Pearson and Chick join Josh Kemeny, providing a balanced and experienced group.
Replacements and Injury Updates
Saints opt for a six-two split on the bench in Salford, with space for internationals Danilo Fischetti, Elliot Millar Mills, and Henry Pollock. Club captain George Furbank is set to make his return from injury from amongst the replacements, adding further depth to the squad.
Not Considered for Selection
Emeka Atuanya, Will Glister, Curtis Langdon, Tom Litchfield, Fin Smith, and Tom West are not considered for selection, indicating a focused approach by Dowson on the available talent and form.
Sale Sharks Team Preview
Sale Sharks will be looking to respond strongly to Northampton's visit, with their own team news indicating a strong lineup. The match, set to take place at the CorpAcq Stadium in Salford, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two Premiership heavyweights.
Sale Sharks Lineup
Sale's team to face Saints includes Joe Carpenter at fullback, Tom O’Flaherty on the wing, Rob du Preez in the center, Rekeiti Ma’asi-White on the other side, Alex Wills on the wing, George Ford at fly-half, and Raffi Quirke at scrum-half. The front row features Bevan Rod, while the back row is yet to be fully confirmed.
Historical Context and Match Dynamics
While Northampton have not tasted victory in Salford since March 2017, their last three trips to the CorpAcq Stadium have been decided by less than a single score. This historical context adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming match, as both teams are aware of the tight margins that often define their encounters.
Season Double Target
The men in Black, Green, and Gold will be going in search of their first season double over Sharks since the 2016/17 term following a 47-21 win back in Round 7. This ambition adds to the significance of the match, as Northampton look to assert their dominance over their rivals.
Match Preview and Predictions
The clash between Northampton Saints and Sale Sharks is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams possessing the skill and determination to secure a victory. Northampton's recent form and the return of key players like Hutchinson could give them the edge, but Sale Sharks are no strangers to success and will be looking to capitalize on any weaknesses they can identify.
Key Matchups to Watch
Key matchups to watch include the battle between the two midfields, the contest between the back rows, and the duel between the half-backs. Each of these areas could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the match.
Conclusion
As the final league match before the 2026 Guinness Six Nations, the encounter between Northampton Saints and Sale Sharks is not just a battle for Premiership points but also a statement of intent for the upcoming international season. Both teams will be eager to impress and secure a result that could set the tone for their campaigns ahead.