Northampton Saints are set to make two lineup changes as they prepare for their Investec Champions Cup clash against the Vodacom Bulls. The matches will take place at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Sunday, December 14, 2025, with a kick-off scheduled for 3:15 PM.
Lineup Changes Ahead of Vodacom Bulls Showdown
The Saints welcome back Ollie Sleightholme to the wing after a three-week injury layoff. His inclusion marks a notable shift in the squad for the upcoming match. Additionally, Henry Pollock moves into the starting XV, taking on the No. 8 position.
Previous Encounters and Current Standings
This game marks the third consecutive season in which the Saints will face the Bulls. Previously, Northampton claimed victories against the South African side both at home and away in 2024. They won 59-22 at cinch Stadium and achieved a historic 30-21 win at Loftus Versfeld.
Currently, the Saints sit second in Pool 4 after their opening match, where they secured a 27-35 victory over Section Paloise. They trail leaders Union Bordeaux-Bégles only on points difference and aim for a consecutive win in the competition.
Key Players for Northampton Saints
George Furbank, the club captain, will lead from the fullback position on Sunday. The team features a strong all-international centre pairing, with Fraser Dingwall and Rory Hutchinson. Halves Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith are set to play for the second week in a row.
The front row remains unchanged with Danilo Fischetti, Craig Wright, and Trevor Davison. Locks Alex Coles and JJ Van Der Mescht also retain their starting roles. The back row will include Pollock at No. 8, alongside flankers Josh Kemeny and Tom Pearson.
Substitutes and Match Details
The Saints will adopt a six-two bench strategy for this fixture. Among the substitutes are Cleopas Kundiona, Ed Prowse, Sam Graham, and Toby Thame, who are prepared to enter the match at cinch Stadium.
Here are the complete match details:
| Match | Date | Kick-off | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| NORTHAMPTON SAINTS vs VODACOM BULLS | December 14, 2025 | 3:15 PM | cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens |
Matchday Lineups
Here are the starting players for Northampton Saints:
- 15. George Furbank (c)
- 14. Ollie Sleightholme
- 13. Rory Hutchinson
- 12. Fraser Dingwall
- 11. George Hendy
- 10. Fin Smith
- 9. Alex Mitchell
- 1. Danilo Fischetti
- 2. Craig Wright
- 3. Trevor Davison
- 4. Alex Coles
- 5. JJ Van Der Mescht
- 6. Josh Kemeny
- 7. Tom Pearson
- 8. Henry Pollock
The Bulls squad will feature notable players like Devon Williams and Marcell Coetzee, among others. This anticipated match promises to deliver exciting rugby for fans at Franklin’s Gardens.
