The new Premiership Rugby season begins with reigning champions Northampton seeking an unprecedented third title in four years, whilst other contenders battle to stop their dominance. The campaign comprises 18 rounds through to early June, occurring against the backdrop of a World Cup just over a year away, as BBC Sport analysts assess each club's prospects.

The article profiles several major contenders: Bath, despite losing key ball-carriers such as Thomas du Toit and Alfie Barbeary, remain competitive with Finn Russell's leadership and recruit Dan du Preez; Bristol Bears aim to return to the top four under Pat Lam, with Louis Rees-Zammit back on the wing and George Kloska now an England international, though squad depth in the front row remains a concern; Exeter Chiefs made a surprise run to last season's final and have retained most of their squad, boasting attacking firepower through Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Henry Slade alongside pack dominance from players like Dafydd Jenkins and Greg Fisilau.