Michael Cheika, the head coach of Leicester Tigers, has openly acknowledged that Bath enters the Premiership Grand Final as the overwhelming favorite. However, Cheika and his team remain undeterred, fueled by an unyielding belief in their capabilities.

"I know we will be doubted, and probably for good reason given the results and the table standings," Cheika stated in an interview with BBC Radio Leicester. "But the crucial thing is that within the team and the group of people around us, we don’t doubt ourselves. We have belief."

Leicester finished second in the Premiership table, trailing Bath by 11 points. Bath has already secured the European Challenge Cup and the Premiership Rugby Cup this season, making them a formidable opponent. Despite Bath's dominance, including a resounding 43-15 victory over Leicester less than a month ago, Cheika remains confident in his team's ability to rise to the occasion.

"We have strong self-belief internally, and that will be crucial," Cheika emphasized. "This belief has been built up over the season, and now is the time to use it. When you close your eyes, you can see what you need to do to achieve your goal. It’s not just about the prize but the steps you take to get there."

The upcoming final is not just about the game; it’s also a farewell for several Leicester legends. Ben Youngs, Dan Cole, and Mike Brown will retire after the match, marking the end of an era. Additionally, Cheika’s tenure as head coach will conclude, along with the careers of captain Julian Montoya and South Africa’s Handre Pollard.

Despite the emotional backdrop, Cheika remains focused on the task at hand. "We want to win for everyone," he said. "The title is no more important to the departing players than it is to the rest of the team, the support staff, or the fans. We are all part of the club, and we are in this together."

As Leicester prepares to face Bath at Twickenham, the Tigers are ready to defy the doubters and prove that self-belief can overcome even the toughest odds.