Adam Williams presents his prediction for the English Premiership rugby match.
Gloucester Rugby, of course, are a few levels below Saracens, but the latter have lost several key players, including club icon Owen Farrell. Can the hosts take advantage of this opportunity?
Gloucester Rugby
Gloucester Rugby have been playing in the top English division since its inception, even before the formation of the commercial Premiership. However, their playoff appearances are rare, and their two regular-season wins are devalued by their losses in knockout games. Finishing ninth last season was slightly alleviated by their Premiership Rugby Cup victory and their appearance in the Challenge Cup final. George Skivington became head coach in 2023, so the credit for this goes to him. Notable signings include Cardiff Rugby and the Wales national rugby union team scrum-half Tomos Williams, former Wasps RFC winger Christian Wade, who once dominated the Premiership before switching to American football, and possibly the return to form of Welsh fly-half Gareth Anscombe, who joined as a free agent.
Saracens
Saracens have seen the departure of 16 players, with three being key losses: Billy and Mako Vunipola and, naturally, Owen Farrell. All three moved to French clubs due to insufficient salaries. The English Rugby Union has started addressing this issue but has already lost these players. Mark McCall has responded by making selective reinforcements. Props Rhys Carré (from Cardiff Rugby) and Fraser Balmain (from Gloucester Rugby), fly-half Fergus Burke (from Crusaders), and English centre Sam Spink, who gained experience with Western Force, will now be regulars at StoneX Stadium.
Gloucester Rugby vs Saracens Prediction
Despite the departure of this trio, Saracens still boast a roster of players capable of comfortably outplaying Gloucester away. Last season, Mark McCall's team won both encounters by more than 20 points: at home, 46-24, and away, 24-3. This time, the margin will also be significant, but I'll opt for a handicap bet on the visitors for greater reliability.
