Johann van Graan has announced a strong lineup for Bath Rugby as they gear up to face Saracens in the last 16 knockout stage of the 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup. After a narrow victory with a second-string squad in the Premiership against Sale Sharks, Bath is returning its key players to tackle this critical European fixture.
Renowned as the Gallagher Premiership’s most promising contender for a deep run in this season’s European tournaments, Bath seeks to build on last year’s success, which included lifting the EPCR Challenge Cup as part of a treble-winning campaign.
The starting XV features 13 changes, including seven internationals in the pack. The front row will see Beno Obano, Tom Dunn, and Archie Griffin anchoring the scrum. Quinn Roux and Charlie Ewels form the second row, while Josh Bayliss and Guy Pepper are set to provide power on the flanks. Alfie Barbeary, the only uncapped player in the lineup and a nominee for European Player of the Year, completes the back row.
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Bath’s backline is entirely composed of international talent: Captain Ben Spencer will lead from scrum-half, paired with fly-half Finn Russell. Centre partnership is formed by Max Ojomoh and Ollie Lawrence, with wings Henry Arundell and Joe Cokanasiga stretching the defense. Santi Carreras will take the full-back position, rounding out the starting XV.
The bench promises a strategic impact with players like Kepu Tuipulotu, Francois van Wyk, and Thomas du Toit ready to reinforce the forwards. Dynamic back-rowers Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, and Miles Reid complete the replacements. Bernard van der Linde will make his European debut off the bench, joined by Cameron Redpath.
Saracens also present a formidable lineup. Their starting XV includes captain Maro Itoje in the second row, with notable names such as Owen Farrell at center and Elliot Daly at full-back. The replacements consist of strong characters like Marco Riccioni and Max Malins.
The match will be officiated by Nika Amashukeli from Georgia, with assistant referees Ben Connor from Wales and Shota Tevzadze also from Georgia. Ben Whitehouse will serve as the TMO.
This eagerly anticipated fixture pits two heavyweight English clubs against each other in a pivotal knockout encounter that promises intensity, skill, and thrilling rugby.