Arundell Reignites Spark in Bath’s Dominant Start

Henry Arundell, once struggling for form at Racing 92, has become a revelation for Bath this season. The 22-year-old winger dazzled in Bath’s 38-17 demolition of Gloucester, delivering two try assists with blistering pace and inventive offloads. His resurgence adds depth to a Bath squad already boasting wingers Will Muir and Joe Cokanasiga. With 15 points from three games, Bath’s early dominance signals a title-defense threat.

• Ewan Richards (2 tries) and Santiago Carreras (versatile bench impact) further highlighted Bath’s squad depth.
• Arundell’s Test recall prospects grow brighter after his 2022 debut try against Australia.

Marcus Smith’s Tactical Pivot: Kicking Quins to Victory

Harlequins’ Marcus Smith showcased a refined tactical arsenal in their 20-14 derby win over Saracens. Traditionally a flair-driven fly-half, Smith executed 32 kicks for 923 meters, including a match-defining up-and-under that led to his own try. This strategic shift under new attack coach Lee Blackett hints at England’s evolving gameplan.

• Guido Petti (debut) and Kieran Treadwell bolstered Quins’ physicality upfront.
• "We’re Harlequins—we want four tries," said coach Jason Gilmore, acknowledging the uncharacteristic but effective approach.

Bristol’s Backline Crisis: Forwards Step Up Amid Chaos

Bristol Bears’ injury-ravaged backline reached breaking point in their 18-14 win over Exeter. With 15 backs unavailable, including stars AJ MacGinty and Louis Rees-Zammit, third-tier call-up Sam Worsley sealed victory with a 50-meter penalty. Tom Jordan’s red card exacerbates their crisis ahead of a daunting Kingsholm trip.

• Pat Lam: "The forwards vowed to create a platform, and they delivered."
• Key stat: Bristol’s pack made 87% of tackles in the final quarter.

Fallen Clubs’ Legacy: A Combined XV of Wasps, Worcester & Irish

Three years after Wasps’ collapse, a hypothetical XV from defunct clubs features:

1. Henry Arundell (London Irish)
2. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Wasps)
3. Ollie Lawrence (Worcester)
4. Benhard Janse van Rensburg (London Irish)
5. Fin Smith (Worcester)

Notable omissions: Tom Pearson, Alfie Barbeary, and Ben Loader.