The Gallagher Premiership is now poised to enter an exhilarating knockout phase following an intense conclusion to the 2024/25 regular season. The anticipation is palpable as rugby enthusiasts gear up for the much-awaited play-off semi-finals. This Friday, June 6, the action kicks off with Bath Rugby squaring off against Bristol Bears in what promises to be an electrifying south-west derby. Bath’s exceptional performance throughout the season saw them finishing a commanding 11 points ahead of their closest rivals at the top of the league table. Their dominance has positioned them as favorites entering the knockout rounds.
Bristol Bears, on the other hand, solidified their playoff berth with a commanding victory over Harlequins last weekend, winning 52-26. This emphatic win allowed them to secure the fourth and final playoff spot. The clash between Bath and Bristol is expected to be a fierce battle, showcasing the skill and spirit of two rival teams that are deeply entrenched in local competition. Bath looks to avenge their narrow defeat in the previous final against the Northampton Saints, while the Bears strive to reach their debut Gallagher Premiership final.
Looking ahead to the other semi-final, set to take place on Saturday, June 7, Leicester Tigers will enjoy home ground advantage as they take on Sale Sharks. This contest is particularly riveting as it features the second and third-placed teams battling for a place in the final. In their concluding regular-season match, Leicester secured a resounding 42–20 victory over the struggling Newcastle Falcons, which confirmed their strong position in the league. The Tigers, with a prestigious legacy shaped by eleven championships, are undoubtedly eager to add yet another title to their illustrious history.
Sale Sharks also concluded their regular season on a high note, narrowly overcoming a spirited Exeter Chiefs team with a 30–26 triumph at Sandy Park. This victory not only solidified their playoff position but also demonstrated their resilience as they prepare to take on Leicester in what is expected to be a thrilling contest. Sale Sharks, who achieved a memorable title win against Leicester in the 2005/06 final, will be keen to replicate that success and progress toward a shot at glory.
The stakes for both semi-finals are high, as the winning teams will advance to the final, scheduled to take place at the prestigious Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on Saturday, June 14. For Bath, this could mark their second consecutive final appearance, while Bristol aims to make history by reaching their first-ever final in the Gallagher Premiership. The narratives surrounding both teams add extra excitement to the face-offs, as Bath seeks redemption and Bristol aims for a groundbreaking achievement.
Fans eager to witness these crucial matches can catch both Gallagher Premiership play-off semi-finals live on TNT Sports and discovery+. The much-anticipated clash between Bath Rugby and Bristol Bears will begin at 19:45 UK time on June 6, with coverage commencing on TNT Sports 1 at 19:00. Following that, the encounter between Leicester Tigers and Sale Sharks will kick off at 15:30 UK time on June 7, with coverage starting on TNT Sports 2 at 14:45.
With the competition heating up and each team bringing its unique strengths and storylines to the field, the knockout stage promises to deliver exhilarating rugby action, leaving fans at the edge of their seats as they cheer for their teams amid the palpable excitement of the Gallagher Premiership playoffs.