Henry Slade produced a standout display at Sandy Park during round 18 as Exeter claimed a decisive 32-12 win over Saracens to lock in a play-off berth.

His powerful kick to touch in a previous semi-final had been replayed often ahead of this clash, recalling how it set up a late winning score.

Years later the 33-year-old again proved influential, gliding across the field, crossing for a try that sparked the second-half surge and hauling down Rotimi Segun with a vital tackle before half-time.

After earning his 74th England cap last November, Slade recently voiced frustration at missing the entire Six Nations. His current form is pushing him back into national contention ahead of other centres.

Exeter attack coach Dave Walder backed him strongly, noting Slade's consistent excellence in attack and defence each week.

Slade told BBC Radio 5 Live he felt fresh and in peak condition, describing the return of play-off rugby as special.

Bath's hopes of retaining their title may hinge on Finn Russell recovering from a troublesome calf injury.

The Scotland fly-half missed the clash with Leicester after coach Johann van Graan judged the risk too great despite a play-off place already assured.

Argentina's Santi Carreras filled in effectively as Bath edged a 24-22 victory and secured a home semi-final against Exeter.

Van Graan reported Russell was progressing well but not yet fully fit, leaving his availability for the weekend in doubt.

Bath relied on forward power, with Thomas du Toit claiming a hat-trick, yet will need sharper execution against the Chiefs.

Northampton left The Stoop empty-handed yet carried home a historic achievement after Jonny Weimann's early try made them the first side to reach 100 regular-season tries in the Premiership era.

They finished with 104, surpassing their own previous record despite playing six fewer matches than in 2021-22.

Even with several stars rested against Harlequins the Saints attack remained potent, setting up an intriguing derby semi-final against Leicester.

Defence coach Lee Radford departs for Scotland at season's end, and Northampton have leaked more tries than any other top-six side.

They will lean on attacking flair and rested players to counter Leicester's strong recent form in the reverse fixture.

The weekend featured several farewells, none more significant than Tom Willis's departure for Bordeaux-Begles.

The 27-year-old leads the league in carries, offloads and defenders beaten while ranking high in turnovers and tackles.

His late efforts against Exeter could not prevent defeat, but his all-action style has made him the Premiership's premier back-row forward.

Willis has held an England central contract yet has not featured since announcing his move, with coach Steve Borthwick opting to develop alternatives.

His exit may prompt future reflection given the lack of comparable options at number eight.