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Smith makes claim, Chessum and Russell make friends – Prem talking points
Bath, Harlequins and Leicester won in the final round of Premiership matches before the November international break. Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith strengthened his case for an England start against Australia, while Leicester captain Ollie Chessum impressed on his return from injury as his side moved top of the table.
Smith has not started at fly-half for England for 21 months and could get the role if Fin Smith is ruled out with a calf injury. Harlequins beat Exeter with five tries from seven visits to the opposition 22, compared with Exeter’s four from 13. Leicester’s only league defeat remains their 40-38 loss to Saracens in the opening round; Chessum returned against Northampton before helping his side beat Bristol.
In short
- Marcus Smith is in contention to start at fly-half for England.
- Leicester moved top after beating Bristol.
- Ollie Chessum made an energetic return from injury.
Explained simply
The Premiership is England’s top domestic rugby union league. Clubs play a regular season, with results shaping the standings and the contest for the title; some players also compete for places in the national team.
Marcus Smith is a fly-half for Harlequins, while Fin Smith is another contender for England in the same position. Ollie Chessum is Leicester’s captain and a forward, whose return from injury gives his club an experienced player as the league season continues.
Club performances can influence England selection, but international coaches make those decisions separately. The November matches give players a chance to represent England, while Premiership clubs continue to compete for points and league position.
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