Saturday's Premiership action saw Gloucester secure an emphatic 45-24 bonus-point victory over Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park, marking their first league win on Devon soil since 2015. Inspired by summer arrivals Dewi Lake, Jac Morgan, and Jean Kleyn, Gloucester dominated despite Exeter being ravaged by illness and squad absences. Ben Redshaw's kick-pass set up Ben Loader's early try, but Exeter responded through Josh Iosefa-Scott. Clever kicking from Caolan Englefield created a try for Seb Atkinson, and Charlie Atkinson's conversions and crossfield kick led to another Loader score. Ethan Roots' barnstorming run and Lake's driving maul try gave Gloucester a 14-point lead at the interval. In the second half, Lake added a second try, and Will Joseph's individual score sealed the win. Exeter responded through Stephen Varney, but Gloucester's defense held firm. Exeter salvaged a bonus-point try through Louie Gulley, but Junior Denny's final try sealed Gloucester's victory.

In Salford, Bristol Bears defeated Sale Sharks 34-24, ruining Courtney Lawes' homecoming. The 37-year-old England great made his first Premiership appearance since leading Northampton to the title at Twickenham. Bristol ran in five tries to secure an entertaining win to open their campaign.