Saints Announce Five Key Changes for Sale Sharks Clash
The Northampton Saints are set to compete against the Sale Sharks this weekend in the Gallagher Premiership. This match takes place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the CorpAcq Stadium, with a start time of 5:30 PM. The Saints will aim to secure their first victory in Salford since March 2017.
Key Changes in Saints’ Line-up
Head coach Phil Dowson has implemented five significant changes to the Saints’ squad following their recent victory over Scarlets, where they won 43-28. The changes include:
- Alex Coles
- Tom Pearson
- Callum Chick
- Rory Hutchinson
- George Hendy
Fraser Dingwall will captain the team again, starting at centre alongside Hutchinson, who has recently been called up for Scotland’s Six Nations squad. Hutchinson’s return also allows Tommy Freeman to move back to the wing position.
Starting XV Overview
Northampton will maintain their half-back pairing of Alex Mitchell and Anthony Belleau. Both players have shown solid form over the past weeks.
The forward pack includes:
- Loosehead: Emmanuel Iyogun
- Tighthead: Trevor Davison
- Hooker: Robbie Smith
- Locks: Alex Coles and JJ Van Der Mescht
- Back Row: Josh Kemeny, Tom Pearson, and Callum Chick
The bench features a six-two split, allowing space for several notable internationals, including Danilo Fischetti and George Furbank, who is returning from injury.
Sales Sharks Team for the Clash
Sale Sharks have also finalized their squad ahead of the match. Key players include:
- Fullback: Joe Carpenter
- Fly-half: George Ford
- Number Eight: Tom Curry
Both teams will aim for a strong performance, especially as the Saints attempt to achieve a season double over the Sharks, having previously won 47-21 in Round 7.
Match Details
Location: CorpAcq Stadium, Salford
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Kick-off: 5:30 PM
Expectations
The match promises to be competitive as both teams look to assert their dominance in the Gallagher Premiership. Fans will be watching closely as the Saints seek to break their winless streak in Salford.
