5 things to look out for when the Gallagher Premiership returns on Friday

Rob Baxter’s Exeter are clear title favourites.

The Gallagher Premiership will resume on Friday, 159 days after the coronavirus pandemic brought it to a halt.

Harlequins, part of the final fixture against Bristol on March 8, will restart the competition against Sale Sharks.

Here, the PA news agency looks at five things that could materialise during the next two months.

Is the title Exeter’s to lose?

Harlequins v Exeter Chiefs – Gallagher Premiership – Twickenham Stoop — Exeter rugby director Rob Baxter (Ashley Western/PA)

Can Sale navigate a route to Premiership glory?

What they did next – A look at England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winners — England World Cup winner Jason Robinson captained Sale to the 2006 Premiership title (David Davies/PA)

Superstar Semi Radradra set to take top billing

Many of the world’s leading players have graced the Premiership since its launch in 1997, with imports like former Saracens hooker Schalk Brits and ex-Harlequins fly-half Nick Evans among those to leave lasting impressions. Bristol, though, might have trumped the lot with Fijian back Semi Radradra’s arrival at Ashton Gate. The 6ft 4in, 16-stone centre or wing has terrorised defences since moving from rugby league in 2017, and he was a stand-out performer during last year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan. Radradra is ready to rumble.

Can a champion emerge from the congested chasing pack?

How will teams adapt to empty stadiums?

Of all the changes and adaptations players will face as the Premiership returns, games being played behind closed doors will prove the strangest of experiences. Packed houses at grounds like Kingsholm, Sandy Park and Welford Road are for another day – maybe not until next year – with the league set to resume in front of live audiences comprising only coaching staff and media. It will be a unique experience for most, and it remains to be seen if the quality will be affected.