From Rugby World · · 1m 10s
Saracens: Gallagher PREM 2026-27 preview
Saracens prepare for new era under Dr Brendan Venter after Mark McCall's exit.
In brief
Saracens prepare for new era under Dr Brendan Venter after Mark McCall's exit. Saracens aim to reach play-offs for first time since 2024 with Dr Brendan Venter as director of rugby and key signings like Alfie Barbeary and Tomos Williams. Originally reported by Rugby World.
Saracens post-McCall era
Saracens face uncertainty after Mark McCall's 17-year tenure as director of rugby ended with six PREM titles and three Champions Cups.
Dr Brendan Venter joins Saracens
Dr Brendan Venter, who left his medical practice near Stellenbosch, will lead Saracens with a focus on being 'intense, physical' and hard to play against.
“We’re a good rugby side, intense, physical, that is Saracens, hard to play against. That’s my vision for the group, to be that all the time.”
Key signings for Saracens
Saracens bolstered by Alfie Barbeary from Bath Rugby and Tomos Williams from Gloucester Rugby.
Alfie Barbeary's role
At 25, Alfie Barbeary, a younger and less imposing model, aims to replace Tom Willis with explosive power and leg drive.
Noah Caluori's potential
Teenager Noah Caluori, a 6ft 4in winger with a vertical leap, scored five tries in his first PREM start last season.
Saracens 2026-27 prediction
Saracens expected to reach top four with refreshed Maro Itoje and key signings.
Here's the gist
Saracens aim to reach play-offs for first time since 2024 with Dr Brendan Venter as director of rugby and key signings like Alfie Barbeary and Tomos Williams.
