Bath Rugby will be without England international winger Will Muir for the remainder of the 2025/26 season following a shoulder injury that requires surgery. The injury was sustained during Bath’s Champions Cup semi-final loss to Bordeaux-Begles two weeks ago. Despite scoring twice in that match, Muir left the field in the 66th minute clearly in discomfort.
Head of rugby Johann van Graan confirmed in a recent press conference, “Unfortunately, Will Muir’s season is over due to his shoulder injury. He will undergo surgery later this week. It’s disappointing for both Will and the team, but injuries are part of the game.”
Muir, who made his England debut last summer against Argentina, has had a challenging season plagued by injuries. Prior to this shoulder setback, he missed the first four months of the season after an ankle injury sustained in pre-season against Worcester Warriors. Van Graan praised Muir’s recent form since his January return, highlighting his aerial ability, defensive contributions, and try-scoring. “Will is one of the most likeable players in rugby, so we’re all gutted for him. We’ll support him fully and aim to have him back stronger next season.”
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Despite Muir’s absence, Bath remains well-equipped in the back three with talents such as Joe Cokanasiga, Henry Arundell, Tom de Glanville, Santi Carreras, and Ciaran Donoghue ready to step up.
On a brighter note, young Welsh international centre Louis Hennessey, who also suffered a shoulder injury during the Bordeaux match, is progressing well. Van Graan indicated he hopes for Hennessey’s return to training by the end of next week or by the Bristol game on May 29th. “That’s a return to training, not necessarily play,” he clarified.
Max Ojomoh is approaching a comeback following a knee injury sustained during the league win over Harlequins last month. Having resumed training late last week, he is close but likely not ready for this weekend’s match.
Prop Archie Griffin remains available for Bath’s critical run-in but will undergo elective surgery on a persistent foot problem after the domestic season concludes. This operation will rule him out of Wales’ summer internationals. Van Graan noted, “We’ll take our time with his recovery.”
Meanwhile, lock Quinn Roux faces a suspension after receiving a red card for a head-on collision with Henry Slade in the recent 35-12 defeat at Exeter Chiefs. Roux has been given a three-game ban, reducible to two upon completing World Rugby’s ‘tackle school.’ Since Roux failed a Head Injury Assessment post-incident, he will miss this weekend’s game against Newcastle Red Bulls and is unlikely to return until a potential playoff semi-final.
Bath Rugby enters this crucial phase of the season challenged by injuries and suspensions but supported by a resilient squad keen to deliver on home soil.