# Smith makes claim, Chessum and Russell make friends – Prem talking points

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/smith-makes-claim-chessum-and-russell-make-friends-prem-talking-points/
- Published: 2026-11-02T12:45:59+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-02T13:20:19+00:00
- Original publisher: BBC Sport (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/c620rdnr3rl1o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
- Topics: Americas, Art, Celebrity, Culture, Entertainment, Sport, UK, World

## Key points

- 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.

## Summary

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.

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