Bath Rugby face uncertainty over the availability of key players Will Muir and Louie Hennessey following shoulder injuries sustained during their 38-26 Champions Cup defeat to Bordeaux-Bègles on Sunday. Both internationals impressed at Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Metropole, with Muir scoring two tries and earning a spot in the EPCR Team of the Weekend alongside teammate Henry Arundell. Hennessey, a promising 22-year-old with one Welsh cap, also crossed the try line despite Bath’s loss.
Their injuries now cast doubt over Bath’s preparations for their crucial Round 15 Gallagher Premiership clash against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on Sunday. The match carries significant stakes: second-placed Bath aim to climb to the summit and cement a home semi-final advantage, while Exeter fight to maintain their playoff position.
Speaking after the game, head coach Johann van Graan provided an injury update: “Will has a shoulder injury confirmed by our head of medical, Rory Murray, who made the decision to remove him immediately. Louie appears to have sustained a shoulder injury too, from a heavy collision with Ben Tameifuna. It was a physical and demanding match in tough conditions. We’ll assess both players fully once back and will begin recovery and training again on Wednesday.”
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Bath’s squad depth is being tested, as centre Max Ojomoh is expected to miss at least another week due to a knee injury, while Cam Redpath and Joe Cokanasiga were unavailable last weekend. This led to Hennessey stepping into the 13 jersey, where he delivered a standout performance.
Van Graan praised Hennessey’s contribution, saying, “Louie represented us exceptionally well in what was one of his biggest matches to date. His attacking and defensive efforts were impressive. It’s always encouraging to see players seize their opportunities. Credit also goes to Will Butt, Chris Harris, Max Ojomoh, and Cam Redpath for their support this week. We operate as a team that pulls together to achieve success.”
As Bath look ahead to the Premiership fixture, the fitness of Muir and Hennessey remains a key concern in a tightly contested campaign.