Prem Rugby 2026-27: the essential club-by-club guide to the new season

Ahead of the 2026-27 Premiership Rugby season, the preview focuses on how clubs shape their squads and what to watch in each campaign. Bath head into the new year with something to prove after losing at home to Exeter in last season’s semi-finals, with a World Cup looming at the end of the campaign. The article highlights Bath’s key players, including centres Ollie Lawrence, Max Ojomoh and Ted Hill, and notes that Dan du Preez arrives, while Thomas du Toit’s return to South Africa is a major loss. It also considers what it would mean if Bath finish in the top two. Bristol are described as likely playoff challengers, with Exeter’s improved momentum tied to the AFC Bournemouth owner takeover.