Phil Dowson has officially announced the Northampton Saints roster for their highly anticipated match against Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Premiership. This exciting encounter is set to take place on Saturday, November 29, at 5:45 PM. The game will be hosted at Ashton Gate, a venue that has presented challenges for the Saints in recent years.
Northampton aims to secure their first victory at Ashton Gate since 2021, when they won 36-20. In their last encounter at cinch Stadium, the Saints triumphed 48-31 over Bristol, thanks to impressive performances from players like Tommy Freeman and Alex Mitchell. With this in mind, the Saints are eager to replicate their past success while maintaining their unbeaten status at the top of the Premiership table in Round 6.
Key Team Updates
This weekend sees the return of Fin Smith, who recently participated in England’s Quilter Nations Series. Captain George Furbank will shift back to fullback, leading the Saints against Bristol.
- Edoardo Todaro, fresh off his first Italy cap, will start on the wing.
- Amena Caqusau makes his Gallagher Premiership debut.
- Centres Toby Thame and Tom Litchfield will continue their partnership in midfield.
- Archie McParland returns at scrum-half after recovering from an injury.
Front Row and Back Row Dynamics
Emmanuel Iyogun and Trevor Davison will start in the front row, with Craig Wright remaining at hooker. Ed Prowse and JJ Van Der Mescht will operate as locks, while the back row will feature Josh Kemeny, Sam Graham, and Callum Chick, who ranks second in the league for post-contact metres.
Bench Strength
The bench will also include notable players like Scotland international Rory Hutchinson and flanker Tom Pearson, both adding depth and experience to the team.
Match Details
Match: Bristol Bears vs Northampton Saints
Competition: Gallagher Premiership, Round 6
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Kick-off: 5:45 PM
Venue: Ashton Gate
Northampton Saints Lineup
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| 15 | George Furbank (c) |
| 14 | Edoardo Todaro |
| 13 | Tom Litchfield |
| 12 | Toby Thame |
| 11 | Amena Caqusau |
| 10 | Fin Smith |
| 9 | Archie McParland |
| 1 | Emmanuel Iyogun |
| 2 | Craig Wright |
| 3 | Trevor Davison |
| 4 | Ed Prowse |
| 5 | JJ Van Der Mescht |
| 6 | Josh Kemeny |
| 7 | Sam Graham |
| 8 | Callum Chick |
With both teams looking to establish dominance, fans can expect an exciting encounter this Saturday as Northampton Saints aim for victory in the Gallagher Premiership against Bristol Bears.
