Bath Rugby faces uncertainty over the fitness of crucial players Will Muir and Louie Hennessey following their shoulder injuries sustained during Sunday’s 38-26 Champions Cup defeat to Bordeaux-Bègles.
Both internationals impressed at the Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Metropole, with England winger Will Muir scoring twice and earning a spot in the EPCR Team of the Weekend alongside teammate Henry Arundell. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Welsh utility back Louie Hennessey also crossed the try line despite the loss.
However, both players now face doubts ahead of Bath’s upcoming Premiership Round 15 match against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park. The game holds significant weight as Bath, sitting second in the league, aim to solidify their position for a home semi-final and possibly challenge for the top spot. Exeter, meanwhile, are desperate to maintain their play-off place, which could be compromised by a defeat.
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Bath’s head coach, Robbie van Graan, provided an update on the pair’s condition post-match. “Will sustained a shoulder injury, and Rory Murray, our head of medical, made the call to remove him immediately. Louie appears to have a shoulder injury as well after a heavy collision with Ben Tameifuna,” he explained. “It was a physically demanding match with tough conditions that took a lot out of both teams.”
Looking ahead, van Graan said the squad would regroup and reassess on Wednesday to prepare for their Premiership campaign.
Bath’s backline options are somewhat limited due to injuries. Centre Max Ojomoh is expected to be a week away from returning from a knee problem, while Cam Redpath and Joe Cokanasiga were absent against Bordeaux, paving the way for Hennessey’s standout performance at inside centre.
Van Graan praised Hennessey’s impact: “Louie handled the responsibility impressively in his biggest game to date. He was excellent both in attack and defense. It’s crucial that whoever is selected embraces the opportunity to represent the group. Special thanks to Will Butt, Chris Harris, Max Ojomoh, and Cam Redpath for their support this week. Our team spirit is vital in meeting our goals.”