Bath Rugby coach Johann van Graan has confirmed that three of his key forwards—Charlie Ewels, Quinn Roux, and Ted Hill—will miss several weeks due to injuries sustained during their recent victory over Sale Sharks.
Both starting locks, England’s Charlie Ewels and Ireland’s Quinn Roux, suffered knee injuries that forced them off the field in Friday’s 28-16 win at the Recreation Ground. Later in the game, Ted Hill, who had shifted from blindside flanker to lock to cover for the absentees, also exited with an ankle injury following a heavy tackle.
Van Graan provided a sobering update ahead of Bath’s weekend showdown with Gloucester Rugby: “Charlie will be out for a number of weeks with his knee. Ted is seeking specialist advice for his ankle, and he’ll also be sidelined for weeks. Quinn has similar knee issues, so we’ll take our time with his recovery.”
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The trio’s absence leaves Bath with only Ross Molony and Ewan Richards as fit senior locks. Additional support will come from academy talents Harvey Cuckson, Will Jeanes, Welsh U20 international Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, and Jack Bennett. Cuckson, who recently joined Worcester Warriors on loan, remains available should Bath require him for this crucial derby match.
Van Graan stressed the team’s resilience amid injury challenges: “Every team faces injuries; it’s about how well you manage them. We’ll look after these players and focus on the ‘next man up’. This approach has been central to our strategy over the past three and a half years, including offering opportunities in the Premiership Cup to prepare squad depth.”
Encouragingly, Bath will welcome back British and Irish Lions stars Finn Russell and Will Stuart this week, alongside Thomas du Toit and new signing Santi Carreras, who have returned from international duty with South Africa and Argentina, respectively.
“It was fantastic to have the whole squad and staff together for the first time since last season,” said van Graan. “Seeing Thomas back after a stellar season, and Santi integrating so quickly, boosts the squad. Finn and Stu have been training over the last few weeks and if selected for the weekend, I’m confident they’ll slot in seamlessly.”
Bath Rugby now looks to overcome their injury setbacks and capitalize on returning internationals as they gear up for a pivotal West Country clash against Gloucester.