2. Zach Mercer (Gloucester)
Returning to Premiership Rugby with great expectations, Zach Mercer was expected to thrive in Gloucester’s attack-focused game plan. But against Sale Sharks, he seemed subdued.
While Mercer constantly made himself available as the primary ball carrier, Sale’s defence kept him contained. He had only one notable break, a rarity for someone known for his dynamism.
With the England back row brimming with talent, this performance may have cast further doubt on his international future. Mercer’s exile from the national team looks increasingly likely to be prolonged unless he rediscovers his form soon.
3. Ben Spencer (Bath)
Ben Spencer had been Bath’s standout player in the opening rounds, but the West Country derby against Bristol marked a rare off-day for the scrum-half on his 100th appearance for the club.
Known for dictating the tempo with his passing and kicking game, Spencer found himself struggling to take control of proceedings. There were loose passes and turnovers at crucial moments, leaving Bath disjointed in attack. While his kicking game was functional, it lacked the sharpness fans have come to expect.
It was a scrappy 40 minutes from Spencer, who couldn’t impose himself even in the second half. Somerset Live rated him a mere five out of ten – a reflection of how far below his usual standards he was.
