Hartpury targets rugby play-offs for new season

Hartpury is targeting a play-off push as the Gloucestershire-based club prepares for its new Elior Champ Rugby campaign. After finishing sixth last season and narrowly losing 28-25 to Coventry in the inaugural second-tier play-offs, the team aims to replicate that success.

Despite operating with one of the smaller budgets in the division, captain Will Crane emphasized that the squad's culture and accountability are key strengths. Crane, who spent time with Premiership neighbors Gloucester last season, noted that professional training and recovery insights from his experience will be integrated into the Hartpury environment.

The club's partnership with Gloucester is expected to remain vital, providing senior experience for young players in the Championship. Back row Jack Davies highlighted players such as Tom Watts and Harrison Bellamy as individuals to watch, suggesting that the club's limited resources help foster a tight-knit, dedicated squad.