Hold onto your seats, rugby fans, because the latest PREM Rugby Team of the Week is here, and it’s packed with players who are not just making waves but crashing through the competition like a freight train! But here’s where it gets controversial—Marcus Smith, after being shuffled between positions, has finally silenced the doubters with a performance that screams, ‘This is my spot!’ Meanwhile, England hopefuls are knocking on the Test selection door louder than ever, with some taking what can only be described as giant leaps toward their international dreams.
As the dust settles on Round Three of the PREM season, let’s dive into the action that had fans on the edge of their seats. The weekend kicked off in the North West, where Sale Sharks didn’t just beat Newcastle Red Bulls—they dominated them, setting the tone for a weekend of high-stakes rugby. Saturday brought its own drama, with Bristol Bears narrowly edging out Exeter Chiefs in a heart-stopping clash at Ashton Gate, while Northampton Saints and Bath secured bragging rights with bonus-point victories over Leicester Tigers and Gloucester, respectively. And let’s not forget Harlequins, who finally got their campaign off the ground with a commanding win over London rivals Saracens.
And this is the part most people miss—behind every try and tackle, there’s a story of grit, strategy, and sheer talent. So, without further ado, here’s the Planet Rugby PREM XV that stood out this weekend, along with a few bold takes that might just spark some debate.
Planet Rugby’s PREM Team of the Week
15. Tom de Glanville (Bath): If England’s selectors aren’t already dialing his number, they should be. De Glanville’s performance was a masterclass in ball-in-hand play, racking up 65 metres from eight carries, beating four defenders, and capping it off with a try. Freddie Steward gave him a run for his money, but de Glanville’s impact was undeniable.
14. Anthony Belleau (Northampton Saints): After two weeks of honorable mentions, Belleau finally cracks the XV, and how! Playing out of position on the wing for just 35 minutes, he still managed a brace and eight carries for 87 metres. Henry Arundell might feel hard done by, but Belleau’s versatility and impact were too good to ignore.
13. Will Joseph (Gloucester): In a losing effort, Joseph was a standout, outshining even Sale’s Rob du Preez. His explosive running—85 metres from nine carries and eight defenders beaten—was a sight to behold, and his try was just the cherry on top. England, are you watching?
12. Ollie Lawrence (Bath): Yes, he wore the 13 jersey, but we’re bending the rules here because Lawrence was that good. A driving force in Bath’s high-powered system, he notched 10 tackles, two turnovers, and seven carries for 29 metres. Bristol’s Benhard Janse van Rensburg was close, but Lawrence’s all-around game sealed the deal.
11. Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks): Roebuck’s stock is skyrocketing, and for good reason. His attacking prowess was on full display with 13 carries for 120 metres and a hat-trick. Add in his aerial work and adaptability, and you’ve got a player who’s as complete as they come. Edoardo Todaro was impressive, but Roebuck stole the show.
10. Marcus Smith (Harlequins): Here’s the controversial bit—Smith’s performance at fly-half was so mature and dominant that it begs the question: Why was he ever moved? Unlocking Saracens with both ball-in-hand and boot, he proved beyond a doubt that he’s a fly-half through and through. Finn Russell and Fin Smith impressed, but Smith’s display was a statement.
9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints): The returning Lion was a menace around the ruck, combining speed with sniping ability for a team-high 11 carries and 52 metres. Kieran Marmion was close, but Mitchell’s impact was game-changing.
8. Sam Dugdale (Sale Sharks): In a weekend of standout number eights, Dugdale’s nitty-gritty work—11 tackles and a turnover—was the bedrock of Sale’s success. Callum Chick and Tom Willis were impressive, but Dugdale’s consistency won out.
7. Tom Pearson (Northampton Saints): Pearson edged out Sam Underhill with a one-man wrecking ball performance. His game-high 16 tackles and five carries for 34 metres were pivotal in the Saints’ derby win. Tristan Woodman’s debut was noteworthy, but Pearson’s impact was undeniable.
6. Fitz Harding (Bristol Bears): Harding’s captain’s knock was the epitome of leadership. With 17 tackles, two turnovers, and relentless carries, he set the tone for Bristol’s gritty win. Ernst Van Rhyn impressed, but Harding’s influence was unmatched.
5. Ewan Richards (Bath): Stepping up after Charlie Ewels’ injury, Richards was a revelation. Eight carries for 45 metres, four defenders beaten, and a brace—he was everywhere. Dafydd Jenkins was classy, but Richards’ effort was heroic.
4. Guido Petti (Harlequins): Petti’s PREM debut was nothing short of a masterclass. Dominating Saracens in every department, he made 11 tackles, eight carries, and beat two defenders. Ben Bamber was solid, but Petti was unstoppable.
3. Asher Opoku-Fordjour (Sale Sharks): For the third week running, Opoku-Fordjour makes the cut. His scrum strength and nine carries highlight his all-around game. England, take note—this man is in form. Trevor Davison impressed, but Opoku-Fordjour is on another level.
2. Nathan Jibulu (Sale Sharks): Jibulu’s performance was nothing short of electrifying. With 56 metres, four defenders beaten, and steely work in the tight, he’s knocking on England’s door. Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom Dunn were strong, but Jibulu was exceptional.
1. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears): Genge’s return to the PREM was a masterclass in loosehead play. His 10 carries and seven tackles were instrumental in breaking down Exeter’s defense. Fin Baxter was solid, but Genge’s world-class ability shone through.
Now, here’s the question for you: With so many players making their case for England selection, who do you think deserves the call-up the most? And is Marcus Smith’s fly-half position finally secure, or is there still room for debate? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
