Sarries won 12-10 at Al Ghazal in October but have lost their seven other games, five by seven points or less. Travelling away is always a tough task but in addition to dreams of a double, Sarries will also be buoyed by the fact that struggling Dubai Exiles won in Bahrain two weeks ago.

“We are a proud bunch of guys who enjoy playing rugby and are looking forward to rising to the atmosphere and cauldron of Bahrain,” said Cowie.

“We’re really excited. Two similar minded, physical teams will be going at it hammer and tongs. We have previously beaten them this year and will be going for the double.

“We have a lot of respect for them mind you – Louie (Tonkin, head coach), Adam (Wallace, captain) and the boys are a great bunch and when it’s all said and done we will have a good catch up after. It’s going to be a cracking day.”

Sarries travel minus a few players due to suspension and injury, but prop Craig Nutt knows the team will give 100 per cent, adding: “We are looking forward to the challenge, it is going to be a good game and a very physical encounter.”

Although they have enjoyed a largely impressive season, building on big advancements made in 2015/16, Bahrain were deflated by their 33-32 loss to Exiles at the end of January.

And despite being the home side, Tonkin is wary of the travelling Sarries.

“We lost against Sarries away from home, they’re a real tough, physical side,” said the Welshman.

“We played well in the first half but it was our discipline and their kicking game that cost us, they executed their game plan very well so we’ll be prepared for that this week.

“We know it will be a hard match but we’ve got to build a performance. Their league position doesn’t indicate how good a side they are, we’re in for a battle, but we’ve just got to win.

“We were disappointed against Exiles, we should have won, so we know how important it is. We know if we get a performance the result will take care of itself.”

Bahrain also have some injuries in the pack to contend with, including two concussions suffered in the bruising Exiles encounter.