Slade Shines as Chiefs Clinch Play-Off Spot; Saints Set New Try Record
Henry Slade played a pivotal role in Exeter Chiefs' 32-12 victory over Saracens, securing a play-off position at the expense of their rivals. Slade, now 33, showcased his skills with a crucial try and a game-saving tackle, underlining his importance to the team nearly a decade after his famous touch-finder set up a match-winning try in the 2017 semi-final. Despite being left out of England's recent Six Nations squad, Slade's current form positions him as a strong contender for a return to the national team. Exeter's attack coach, Dave Walder, affirmed, "If I was picking an England team, I'd have Henry Slade in there," highlighting Slade's consistent performance. Meanwhile, Bath Rugby secured a home semi-final against Exeter with a narrow 24-22 win over Leicester Tigers, despite the absence of star fly-half Finn Russell, who is nursing an injury. Coach Johann van Graan opted for caution, noting Russell's condition is improving but not yet perfect. In a significant milestone, Northampton Saints became the first team in history to score 100 regular-season tries in the Prem era, finishing the season with 104. This achievement is even more impressive considering they accomplished it in six fewer games than the previous record set in 2021-22. As Saints prepare for a semi-final clash against Leicester, they will rely on their attacking prowess and the return of key players, while Leicester aims to repeat their earlier success against Saints. The upcoming final promises to be a thrilling showcase, featuring a new 26kg trophy that will be the heaviest in British sport.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-08