Rugby Focus

London Irish v Harlequins

Twickenham, Saturday, 2pm Tel: 0870 902 0000 Tickets: £20-£30 (Under-16s £5). Tickets include both matches.

The marketing men have got it right for once with the Premiership season starting with a capital double-header at headquarters on Saturday - and a big crowd expected. What can be expected on the field is another matter, of course, but with any luck the summer has given at least some of the players enough of a break to return refreshed. Both teams had their moments last season, but Quins made a major leap in terms of consistency and will be hoping to continue that form.

Verdict: QUINS DO JOB

Saracens v Wasps

Twickenham, Saturday, 4.15pm

The return to action of the Zurich and European champions has been somewhat overshadowed by this week's startling developments on the England front, but Wasps fans will be able to cope - who cares that Clive Woodward has binned England? The main news for them is that Lawrence Dallaglio, their talisman and focal point, is now theirs and theirs alone. The extraordinarily difficult task of retaining even one of their titles, let alone two, is now just a little easier. Saracens seem to have recruited well, and this game will be a good marker for the rest of their season.

Verdict: WASPS STAY STRONG

Union National League One

Exeter v London Welsh

The County Ground, Saturday, 3pm Tel: 01392 278759. Tickets: £10-£14 (Under-16s £2)

A tough start for the Welsh this season. Exeter have already had some impressive showings in pre-season games and believe they have a chance of promotion. The Exiles haven't quite shown the same form - a patchy result against Esher and a drubbing by London Irish - and may struggle away from home.

Verdict: WELSH STUTTER

Henley v Pertemps Bees

Dry Leas, Saturday, 3pm Tel: 01491 574499. Tickets: £10-£13 (£5-£8 concs)

Henley's winning battle against relegation last season should have put some steel into the club and perhaps they can play to their potential this time. Bees (formerly Birmingham/Solihull) finished a strong fourth last term, but Henley might just surprise them.

Verdict: HENLEY HANG ON

Union National League Two

Blackheath v Waterloo

The Rectory Field, Saturday, 3pm Tel: 020 8293 0853. Tickets: £10 (free for Under-16s)

Two great old names of the game meet again in the National Leagues. Both have suffered hard times, but it's particularly good to see Blackheath back - as the only senior club in the south-east of London, the game needs them to be strong. Verdict: BLACKHEATH'S HAPPY HOMECOMING