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Skysports.com previews the Guinness Premiership 2008-09 season

Last updated: 4th September 2008

Guinness Premiership Preview
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With England's disappointing tour of New Zealand almost forgotten, attention now turns to the domestic scene as the Guinness Premiership resumes on Saturday.

All 12 clubs head into the new season with fresh goals and fresh faces as London Wasps attempt to defend their crown amidst fierce competition.

If the 2008-09 campaign is half as exciting as last season we are in for a treat and, with a new influx of international players being snapped up in the close season - there are plenty of stars to watch out for.

Defending champions Wasps have turned to French flanker Serge Betsen to fill the gaping void left by talisman Lawrence Dallaglio following his retirement.

Newly-appointed skipper Raphael Ibanez has the task of attempting to lead his side to their fifth Guinness Premiership title in seven seasons.

Leading the chasing pack out to sting Wasps are Gloucester - head coach Dean Ryan adding the creativity of Olly Barkley to his ranks in an attempt to avenge last season's title heartache.

Leicester Tigers fell at the final hurdle last season and head into the new campaign with highly distinguished head coach Heyneke Meyer at the helm and England international Toby Flood added to the back line.

Bath have suffered a double setback with the departures of England duo Barkley and captain Steve Borthwick (Saracens) and this season is set to be somewhat of transitional period at the Rec.

At the bottom end of the table Newcastle Falcons are likely to embroiled in a relegation dog-fight after losing two key players of their own - Mathew Tait (Sale) and Flood departing from Kingston Park.

Worcester and Bristol are also expected to struggle this campaign, however new boys Northampton have bought wisely in the summer and they may have enough to escape the drop.

Click below for individual previews

Bath

Bristol

Gloucester

Harlequins

Leicester Tigers

London Irish

London Wasps

Newcastle Falcons

Northampton Saints

Sale Sharks

Saracens

Worcester Warriors

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