Defeat against bottom club Leeds at Headingley tomorrow, followed by a loss to European Challenge Cup finalists Sale Sharks next Saturday, would see Quins relinquish their top-flight status unless losing bonus points prove significant and ultimately keep them up.

Leeds, Quins, Worcester, Northampton or London Irish could still plummet through the Premiership’s trap-door, with National League One champions Bristol Shoguns waiting to replace one of them next term.

But tomorrow’s night clash in Yorkshire will go a long way towards deciding the issue.

If Powergen Cup holders Leeds lose, then 11th-placed Quins would effectively be safe, leaving Tykes needing to repeat their Twickenham victory over Bath - this time, in the West Country – on Saturday, otherwise relegation beckons.

“We’ve been dragged right back into the relegation dogfight following our defeat at home to London Irish a fortnight ago,” said Quins chief executive Evans.

“Leeds are on a roll at the moment, and I am sure they will be very confident going into this match.

“However, we have worked really hard over the last two weeks to make sure we are fully prepared to deal with the challenge we will face.”

Quins have made three changes from the side beaten by Irish, with full-back Tom Williams fit again after a shoulder injury to replace Gavin Duffy, while hooker James Hayter takes over from Ace Tiatia and lock Simon Maling is called up as Jim Evans’ second-row partner.

Leeds are without the services of England and Lions full-back Iain Balshaw, who suffered a thigh injury after just four minutes against Bath at Twickenham, and Tykes rugby director Phil Davies has named a 24-man squad.