George Ford has made a huge decision on his future after receiving multiple Top 14 offers

The 96-cap England playmaker had been strongly linked with a potential move to Toulon next summer. The French side was eyeing Ford as a replacement for Wales international Dan Biggar, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. However, recent reports in France indicate Ford has made a decision about his future.

According to reports from France, Ford is expected to extend his contract with Sale Sharks in the coming days. French media have claimed that Ford "would like to continue his career in Sale" despite the enticing prospect of a move to Toulon. This is the second time he has turned down the French giants after rejecting an initially approach way back in 2026.

One of the key reasons behind Ford’s decision appears to be his desire to remain in the North West, where he is settled with his young family. Earlier this year, the fly-half, who has been married to his wife Atdhetare for a year, welcomed the birth of their daughter, Alarnia. He shared the joyful news on the Oldham RUFC website.

Another critical factor is believed to be Ford's standing within the England setup. The player has reportedly received assurances from England head coach Steve Borthwick that he remains a crucial part of the national team's plans. Ford is expected to play a prominent role in the upcoming 2024 Autumn Internationals, the 2025 Six Nations, and future campaigns.

With both family and professional factors weighing in, Ford’s decision to stay at Sale Sharks marks a significant commitment to both his club and country.

England boss Steve Borthwick will have been keeping a close eye on potential stars, and these five players surely caught his attention in the opening round, showcasing the form and physicality needed on the international stage.

George Ford’s assured kicking from the tee proved pivotal as Sale Sharks edged a scrappy encounter to kick off their Premiership campaign. The England fly-half landed four penalties to steer his side to victory in wet conditions in the North West, following a downpour earlier in the day.

Harlequins took the game's only try in the first half, with hooker Jack Walker powering over from a line-out drive. But Ford, absent from England's summer tour, made a strong case for a swift return under Steve Borthwick, showcasing his trademark composure and game management in tough conditions. No other fly-half in the league can match his experience in pressure situations.

The other good news is coming out of France that Ford has rejected big money offers to re-sign with Sale, where his contract was due to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Captain Ben Spencer was at the heart of Bath’s impressive display against Saints, earning the man-of-the-match award with a try, a try assist, and his trademark influence at the gainline.

His performance caught the eye of England head coach Steve Borthwick, who was watching from the stands.

With Northampton's Alex Mitchell unavailable due to injury, Spencer seized the moment, delivering the kind of performance that has become his hallmark in recent seasons.

While other scrum halves may have greater flair on the international stage, none are as consistently vital to their team as Spencer.

“For him to come and deliver that performance was special,” Bath head coach Johann van Graan said. “Ben is a winner, and since he became captain, he’s only improved. He has big dreams in international rugby, but he’s completely focused on leading Bath.”

Flanker Ted Hill, another player under Borthwick's watchful eye, made his presence felt throughout the match. Hill, who joined Bath in 2022 after the collapse of Worcester, capped off an impressive first half with a try, showcasing his athleticism and work rate across the field.

Despite not featuring in Borthwick's plans for England’s upcoming tour, Hill’s performance against Northampton, including his impactful running and solid defence, will have undoubtedly given the England coach something to think about.

Michael Cheika's Leicester Tigers tenure kicked off in thrilling fashion with a last-gasp 17-14 victory over Exeter in their Premiership opener.

England will be hoping to keep Ollie Chessum fit and firing, whether at flanker or lock, after another powerful performance. Named Tigers captain, Chessum's return from a long-term injury was impressive, showing the physicality England needs ahead of crucial tests.

Bristol Bears kicked off their Premiership campaign with a commanding bonus-point victory over Newcastle Falcons.

Full-back Malins was in dazzling form, making the game look effortless with his elegant play. He bagged a brace of tries on Friday night, the first coming from a well-timed diagonal run, collecting a pass at full speed before powering over the line.

His second was pure class, effortlessly plucking a cross-field kick from AJ MacGinty out of the air over his shoulder to touch down. Majestic.