Johann van Graan, head of rugby at Bath Rugby, expressed the team’s anticipation for their upcoming test in the semi-final of the EPCR Challenge Cup against Edinburgh. Earning a home semi-final in the Gallagher Premiership with a resounding victory over Newcastle Falcons, Bath Rugby remains in contention for a historical treble after their previous triumph in the Premiership Rugby Cup.
In preparation for the European semi-final, the team will travel to the Scottish capital to clash with the United Rugby Championship side. The winner will earn a coveted spot in the final at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, with Lyon or Racing 92 vying for the other final spot in the upcoming clash.
Despite a missed opportunity in the 2021 Challenge Cup semi-final, the arrival of Johann van Graan in 2022 marked a transformation for Bath Rugby. With a strategic approach and the emergence of a formidable squad, the team is ready to maximize their potential in the upcoming semi-final.
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Notably, key players such as Ben Spencer, Joe Cokanasiga, and Tom de Glanville were rested in the recent Premiership fixture, indicating the team’s commitment to fielding a strong lineup for the crucial knockout game.
Van Graan emphasized the team’s eagerness for the semi-final encounter, acknowledging the formidable opposition posed by Edinburgh and highlighting the speed and talent within their ranks. He underlined the unpredictable nature of semi-finals, affirming the team’s readiness to embrace the challenge and maintain a resilient spirit regardless of the outcome.