Saracens to send Owen Farrell to Durban
NEWS: The Sharks will be able to test themselves against strong opposition before they get their United Rugby Championship campaign underway at the end of September.
This week, English club Saracens confirmed that they will travel to South Africa as part of their pre-season preparations, and they will take on John Plumtree’s side at Kings Park on Friday, September 5.
Saracens have included England star Owen Farrell in their squad. He has returned to the club after a stint with French outfit Racing 92.
“As part of the tour, Saracens will focus on strength and conditioning alongside the Sharks as well as training and a fixture against the South African outfit,” said a statement.
“There will of course be a big emphasis on social capital, with plenty scheduled to bring the group together, including a safari, golf day and beach braai.
“There will also be a strong community focus, with a visit to Zululand Rhino Orphanage planned as well as a donation to a Kit Charity to give back to the local area.
“This tour demonstrates the ambition for both teams to be at the forefront of the sport, showcasing how they will move forward with engaging and industry-leading content.
“This fixture in Durban will also give supporters the chance to see teams from different hemispheres come together in preparation for the season ahead of their respective campaigns.”
The Sharks will start their 2025/2026 URC campaign against the Glasgow Warriors in Scotland on September 26.
Saracens will begin their Premiership campaign away against Newcastle on the same day.
Saracens travelling squad for pre-season Tour:
Forwards: Tayo Adegbemile, Samson Adejimi, Harvey Beaton, Phil Brantingham, Rhys Carre, Alec Clarey, Eoghan Clarke, Theo Dan, Max Eke, James Hadfield, Reggie Hammick, Nick Isiekwe, Toby Knight, Nathan Michelow, Vilikesa Nairau, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Marco Riccioni, Olamide Sodeke, Marcus Street, Kennedy Sylvester, Hugh Tizard, Tietie Tuimauga, Charlie West, Tom Willis, Harry Wilson.
Backs: Charlie Bracken, Jack Bracken, Fergus Burke, Noah Caluori, Elliot Daly, Luke Davidson, Tobias Elliott, Owen Farrell, Angus Hall, Olly Hartley, Cam Hutchison, Brandon Jackson, Louie Johnson, Alex Lozowski, Max Malins, Rotimi Segun, Gareth Simpson, Sam Spink, Nick Tompkins, Ivan Van Zyl.