Bath Rugby’s 2025/26 season was a tale of near misses, with three semi-final defeats denying them silverware. Yet, despite falling short at the final hurdle, Bath remained one of Europe’s toughest outfits for much of the year. Ahead of the new season, rugby writer Sam Jess dives deep into the performances of Bath Rugby’s backs during this challenging campaign.
England star Tom Arundell burst onto the scene in his debut season, electrifying fans with six tries before Christmas, many from remarkable interceptions. However, Bath’s struggle to generate attacking width in 2026 often left Arundell isolated, limiting his impact. Though flashes of brilliance returned late in the season, defensive lapses occasionally raised concerns. Nonetheless, his 18 tries this season signal a promising return to form for England.
Ollie Butt, after a breakthrough 2024/25 season, found consistency elusive in 2025/26. Restricted to just six Premiership starts, Butt primarily featured alongside Chris Harris in the Premiership Rugby Cup. Their steady partnership lacked flair but was dependable. Butt now heads to Exeter Chiefs, aiming to secure a regular starting spot.
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Scrum-half Ben Spencer had his finest season yet, cementing his place in matchday squads and stepping up confidently whether starting or from the bench. His box-kicking matured significantly, and he notched six tries. Yet, leadership remains an area for growth as he vies with Bernard van der Linde for deputy scrum-half honors.
Argentine Santi Carreras' first season was a mixed bag. Arriving late due to international duties, he struggled to adapt fully to Bath’s style, leaving fans frustrated. While he scored six tries, including standout doubles against Harlequins and Newcastle, his lack of control and a critical drop goal error in the semi-final against Exeter weighed heavy.
On the wing, Louis Cokanasiga delivered his best season to date, rekindling his England prospects. Improved confidence under the high ball—possibly boosted by eye surgery during summer 2025—helped him become a reliable asset. His powerful ball-carrying led to six tries this season, a true “monster awoken.”
Fullback Joe de Glanville remained a fan favorite, solid under the high ball and consistently reliable, though his attacking rhythm wasn’t as sharp as previous years, finishing with four tries.
Injury setbacks curtailed Jake Donoghue’s return, limiting him to just two appearances post an ACL injury. Nevertheless, his performances on comeback showed great promise.
Versatile back-three player Aiden Davis was less prominent this year, with only six Premiership Rugby Cup appearances, reflecting a quieter campaign following his 2024/25 breakthrough.
Winger Tom Griffin shone in the Premiership Rugby Cup, scoring five tries. His potential impact on the regular season was halted by injury.
Chris Harris arrived intending to cover for Ollie Lawrence’s injury but found opportunities limited once Lawrence made a miraculous round one return. Harris logged nine league games, scoring a try against Newcastle but struggled to make a lasting impression.
Sam Harris missed the entire season as he recovered from ankle and ACL injuries sustained in February 2025 and will transfer to Exeter for the following campaign.
Welsh talent Taine Hennessey showcased his adaptability across centre and wing, featuring in seven Premiership matches and scoring three tries. His highlight was a brilliant, world-class performance in the Champions Cup semi-final in Bordeaux, although a season-ending shoulder injury tragically cut his progress short.
Centre Stuart McInally made a miraculous recovery from an Achilles injury to start the season, but fatigue and diminished pace affected his output post-Christmas. This slump contributed to his absence from England’s summer squad.
Young fly-half Jamie Lewis featured seven times in the Premiership Rugby Cup but was often away with England U20 duties, limiting his availability during crucial periods.
After starting the season sidelined due to an ankle injury, Ashley Muir’s form was a slow burn. His best moments came late, including a two-try display in Bordeaux, though another injury curtailed his momentum.
Raw talent Alex Morgan saw limited action with three Premiership Rugby Cup appearances but did score a try against Gloucester.
Max Ojomoh had a solid campaign, adapting temporarily to fly-half in early season before settling back to centre. Despite flashes of brilliance, fatigue mirrored the team’s overall late-season decline.
Reliable centre Toby Redpath remained dependable but, like many teammates, showed signs of wear as the season progressed, missing out on starting roles in key semi-final fixtures.
Fly-half Ollie Russell impressed in his third year, particularly with strong performances early in the year that helped Bath secure Champions Cup knockout qualification. Though his attacking sharpness dipped late in the season, his creativity was evident. His absence was felt during the playoff loss to Exeter.
Captain Ben Spencer was a pillar of consistency, directing play with calm leadership and excellent box-kicking through the winter months. However, heavy playing minutes and international duties took a toll as he appeared fatigued towards season’s end.
Emerging scrum-half Freddie Mills was a dynamic presence when fit, making impactful runs and earning his spot back in the playoffs despite a late ankle injury. A lack of cohesion with Carreras during key moments—most notably in the frustrating final phase of Bath’s playoff match against Exeter—was a setback.
Finally, youngster Josh Penfold debuted in Premiership Rugby late in the season, impressing with his aerial skills and speed. His crucial last-minute tackle away at Northampton offers a glimpse into a bright future.