The Saints have finished fourth in the last two seasons only to make a meek exit on the road in the playoff and they have spent the pre-season bulking up as they aim to become more physical.
“We did not think we were where we needed to be physically last season so there’s been a lot of work in the gym and we’ve been eating as much as we can, not fast food but chicken and rice and a lot of it,” said outside-half Smith, who arrived from Worcester after the start of last season.
“We have a chef at the club who cooks three meals a day, but I am not the most skilled in the kitchen so I rely on Deliveroo when I am at home. I have been trying when it comes to cooking, but then there is the washing up.
“There is no one better for us to challenge ourselves against first up than Sale. They are a massive side that love a physical battle and have a big defence. We will find out where we are and that makes it the perfect opening match for us.”
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