Round 24 brings another big test to the Richmond Athletic Ground this Saturday, with Bedford Blues the visitors for a 3pm kick-off in what promises to be a high-intensity encounter as the season heads towards its conclusion.

The stakes are significant for both sides. Bedford arrive sitting second in the table, just a point behind Worcester Warriors, and have already secured their place in the playoffs after last weekend’s results. Richmond, meanwhile, return home following a challenging run of fixtures against top opposition, and will be eager to use home advantage to build momentum in the closing stages of the campaign.

There is no shortage of quality in the visitors. Bedford have been one of the most consistent sides in the league this season, combining physicality with attacking intent to cement their place in the top three. With playoff rugby now guaranteed, they will be determined to maintain pressure on the teams above them and carry strong form into the next stages.

Richmond, however, will take confidence from the unique edge the RAG provides. The Athletic Ground has consistently brought the best out of the side in Old Gold, Red and Black, with the crowd playing a vital role in lifting energy and intensity. That home support could prove crucial against one of the league’s form teams.

There is added significance for Callum Grieve, who is set to make his 50th appearance for the club this weekend, reaching the milestone in just 50 games without missing a match, one of the quickest to do so. The club’s top points scorer, he also currently sits eighth in the league standings for points this season.

Saturday is set to be more than just a single fixture. It’s a full day of rugby at the RAG, with Richmond Vikings taking on Barnes in the semi-final of the Gauchos ROC London Shield kicking off at 11:30, while London Broncos face Warrington on Pitch 2 at 2pm, bringing rugby league action to the ground in a packed schedule of matches.

Supporters will also have the opportunity to purchase one of just 50 limited-edition Blackeye Gin x Richmond Rugby bottles, produced in collaboration with James Haskell, Alex Payne and Mike Tindall, available via pre-order with tickets, on our website or at the ground on matchday.

On the field, the contest is likely to be shaped by tempo and control. Bedford’s attacking quality and league position point to a side capable of punishing any lapse, while Richmond will look to match that with physicality, discipline, and the energy that comes with playing at home. Managing territory and sustaining pressure will be key areas in determining the outcome.

With a playoff-bound Bedford side chasing second place and Richmond determined to make the most of their return to home turf, this is a fixture set up for a compelling afternoon of rugby. With hospitality already sold out and a strong crowd expected, the stage is set for another big occasion at the RAG.

First XV (1-15)
1. Theo Bevacqua - Sponsored by Andy/Linda Quigley
2. Harry Hocking - Sponsored by Charlie Hodge
3. Luke Spring - Sponsored by Steve Hardwick
4. Fred Hosking - Sponsored by David Whibley
5. George Nugent - Sponsored by Robert Vallings
6. Jake Monson (VC) - Sponsored by Ollie Quigley
7. Xavier Hastings - Sponsored by Willie Munday
8. Sam Pim © - Sponsored by Molloy/Barnes/Morgan/McGee
9. Freddie Charles - Sponsored by Steve Sjostrand
10. Jason Baggott - Sponsored by Tony Dorman
11. Ronnie Du Randt - Sponsored by James Espey
12. Tololima Savaiinaea - Sponsored by Nicholas Clement-Jones
13. James Langson - Sponsored by Patrick Way
14. Chidera Obonna - Sponsored by John Heaton
15. Callum Grieve - Sponsored by Graham Talling
Replacements
16. Will Goffey - Sponsored by Chris Mills
17. Chris Freeman - Sponsored by Andrew Gordon
18. Teddy Gibson - Available to Sponsor
19. JJ Odea - Available to Sponsor
20. Jared Cardew - Sponsored by Stewart and Liz Barlow
21. Charles Gallen - Available to Sponsor
22. Tom Howlett - Available to Sponsor
23. Sam Dardis - Available to Sponsor