Bath Rugby’s head of medical services, Rory Murray, has provided the latest injury update ahead of the club’s pivotal Round Two Gallagher Premiership fixture against Exeter Chiefs on Friday night.
Following last season’s Premiership semi-final rematch, England international winger Henry Arundell has returned to training after being sidelined with a minor back issue that kept him out of the recent match at The Twickenham Stoop. Despite taking part in training, Arundell’s availability for Friday remains uncertain as the coaching staff monitor his condition closely.
Bath’s head of rugby, Johann van Graan, commented: “Henry was part of training today but is struggling a bit with his back. We will make a decision later in the week regarding his participation on Friday. It is important that our backs can maintain performance for the full 80 minutes, and we won’t risk fielding a player who isn’t fully fit. While Henry is a key member of our squad, if he is not at 100%, we will confidently back the rest of the team as we always have.”
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Here is the detailed medical report on Bath’s injured players:
Sam Underhill The England flanker suffered a bicep injury during last Friday’s match against Harlequins. Scans confirmed a bicep tear, and Underhill is scheduled for surgery this week. Van Graan said, “When the injury occurred, I immediately went down to the tunnel because I knew the potential impact. The scan confirmed a bicep rupture, and Sam will undergo an operation on Thursday. This means he will be sidelined for several months, which is disappointing so early in the season, especially after a big pre-season. However, as with any injury at this club, we will focus on his recovery and aim to get him back as soon as possible, whether that’s December or January.”
Jamie Bhatti Scotland international loosehead prop Jamie Bhatti fractured his arm during a pre-season fixture against Glasgow Warriors, ruling him out for several months.
Will Muir The England winger continues rehabilitation following a shoulder operation in the summer, with no fixed return date announced.
Louie Hennessey Wales international centre Louie Hennessey sustained a foot injury in a pre-season match against Bedford Blues. He is expected to return to team training at the start of October.
Vilikesa Sela England A tighthead prop Vilikesa Sela injured his toe in pre-season training and will miss the initial block of Gallagher Premiership fixtures, targeting a late November return.
Ben Spencer England scrum half and club captain Ben Spencer has resumed full team training following shoulder surgery in late July. He is anticipated to be available for selection by mid-October.
Thompson Cowan Flanker Thompson Cowan is gradually reintegrating into training as he recovers from an ACL injury sustained in February 2026. He is expected to return to play during the autumn Premiership Rugby Cup matches.
Bath Rugby continue to monitor their squad’s fitness closely as they prepare for the fixture against Exeter Chiefs, aiming to field a competitive team despite several key players being sidelined.