From Rugby World · · 1m 10s
Sale Sharks aim for Gallagher Premiership play-off return
Sale Sharks target Gallagher Premiership play-off contention after last season's seventh-place finish.
In brief
Sale Sharks target Gallagher Premiership play-off contention after last season's seventh-place finish. Sale Sharks aim to return to Gallagher Premiership play-off contention following a seventh-place finish and significant player changes for the 2026-27 season. Originally reported by Rugby World.
Sale Sharks' 2025 season
Sale Sharks finished seventh in the Gallagher Premiership last season, their worst position in seven years.
“It’s been a year that I know we’ll be better for going forward”
Key changes for 2026-27
Sale Sharks made 15 departures and signed Courtney Lawes, Nicky Smith, Xavier Roe and others for the 2026-27 season.
Alex Sanderson's view
Alex Sanderson called last season a 'year of transition' and believes the team will improve for the 2026-27 season.
“It’s been a year that I know we’ll be better for going forward”
Nicky Smith's role
Nicky Smith, with 66 Test caps, brings experience as a loosehead prop and is expected to be a key player for Sale Sharks.
Xavier Roe's potential
Xavier Roe, a 27-year-old from the Chiefs, is expected to battle Gus Warr for the scrum-half position in 2026-27.
2026-27 prediction
Sale Sharks are predicted to finish fifth in the Gallagher Premiership for the 2026-27 season.
In short
Sale Sharks aim to return to Gallagher Premiership play-off contention following a seventh-place finish and significant player changes for the 2026-27 season.
