Bath Rugby are reportedly keen to re-sign Scotland international loosehead prop Jamie Bhatti ahead of the upcoming season. Bhatti, 32, previously had a brief spell with Bath during the injury-hit 2020/21 season, making 11 appearances when he was brought in as injury cover amid the disruptions caused by Covid-19.
Currently out of contract with Glasgow Warriors, Bhatti’s opportunities have been limited this season, with just five appearances after dropping down the squad hierarchy at Scotstoun. With front-row players François Van Wyk departing for Connacht and Springbok Thomas du Toit returning to South Africa, Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan has publicly expressed the need to bolster loosehead options to provide experienced backup to first-choice Beno Obano.
Obano himself revealed he played much of last season managing a significant foot injury, heightening the urgency for reinforcements in the loosehead position. Having made over 130 appearances across two spells with Glasgow and starting in their recent 2023/24 URC grand final victory, Bhatti brings proven high-level experience to the table.
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Internationally, Bhatti earned his first Scotland cap in 2017 and has since accumulated 35 caps, contributing to notable victories against top-tier opponents like England and Australia. Part of Scotland’s 2023 Rugby World Cup squad, he featured in matches against South Africa and Romania, scoring his only international try against Portugal in November 2024.
In addition to recruitment, Bath are focusing on player retention, particularly regarding promising centre Max Ojomoh. The 25-year-old, who has rapidly enhanced his reputation over the last 18 months, is reportedly being offered an improved three-year contract to secure his future at the club. Ojomoh played a key role in Bath’s domestic cup final successes and has also made strides on the international stage, earning England caps and being named Player of the Match in a November test against Argentina.
With Scottish veteran Chris Harris set to leave, van Graan’s strategy includes building a strong midfield core for sustained success along with solidifying front-row options like the potential arrival of Bhatti.