Lockett Leads Northampton Against Harlequins in PREM Rugby Cup Clash

Lockett Leads Northampton Against Harlequins in PREM Rugby Cup Clash

Tom Lockett is set to lead Northampton Saints as they face Harlequins in the PREM Rugby Cup. This Round 8 match is scheduled for Friday, February 13, 2026, with a kick-off at 7:45 PM. Northampton currently stands third in Pool B, trailing second-place Saracens by three points in their pursuit of a semi-final spot.

Match Significance

Northampton Saints require a victory to enhance their chances of progressing to the knockout stage. In contrast, Harlequins find themselves at the bottom of Pool B, with only one win to their name—a narrow victory over Saracens last weekend. Their qualification hopes seem dim, making this upcoming match crucial for Northampton.

Team Updates and Line-up

Tom Lockett will make his 53rd appearance in a Saints shirt, captaining the side from the second row. Joining him in the engine room is Chunya Munga. A notable return to the front row is Tom West, who is back from injury, and he will team up with hooker Henry Walker and tighthead prop Luke Green.

  • Flankers: Archie Benson and Charlie Ulcoq retain their positions.
  • Fyn Brown has been included at No. 8.
  • Newly contracted Anthony Belleau will start at fly-half.
  • Archie McParland continues as scrum-half.

Tom Litchfield returns to the team after an absence since November and will partner Toby Thame in the center. Amena Caqusau and Ollie Sleightholme will occupy the wings, while James Ramm takes the fullback position for this match.

Bench Players and Debutants

The Saints’ bench features some emerging talent, including three potential debutants:

  • Ben Alexander – Guest player from Old Albanians
  • Joe Cowell – Guest player from Cardiff
  • Jack Lewis – Saints Under-18s standout

In addition, the following players are not available for selection:

  • Emeka Atuanya
  • Will Glister
  • Curtis Langdon
  • Henry Lumley
  • Edoardo Todaro

Several players are on international duty, including Alex Coles, Fraser Dingwall, and Tommy Freeman for England, and Rory Hutchinson for Scotland.

Harlequins Team Overview

Harlequins will present a competitive lineup against the Saints:

  • Josh Bellamy – Fullback
  • Cameron Anderson – Wing
  • Ludo Kolade – Center
  • Sean Kerr – Center
  • Jamie Benson – Fly-Half
  • Max Green – Scrum-Half

In the forward pack, Ethan Clarke, Jack Musk, and Luke Yendle will anchor the front row, supported by a solid second and back row.

Officiating Details

The match will be officiated by referee Harry Walbaum, with Mike Lamb and Mike Woods serving as assistant referees and Simon Harding as the TMO.

The clash between Northampton Saints and Harlequins promises to be pivotal for the Saints as they strive for a semi-final berth in the PREM Rugby Cup.