Bath Rugby’s head of rugby, Johann van Graan, remains confident that Jaco Coetzee will make a strong return after his second ACL injury. The 30-year-old South African number eight endured a challenging 2025/26 season, having missed all matches due to a knee injury sustained in a pre-season game against Munster in September.
Since joining Bath from the Stormers in 2021, Coetzee has featured in just 59 games, his progress hampered by multiple injuries. This latest setback was particularly tough, following a previous ACL injury to his other knee.
During Coetzee’s absence, Bath has relied on players like Alfie Barbeary—now transferred to Saracens—Dan du Preez, Miles Reid, and Arthur Green to fill the void at number eight. Van Graan believes Coetzee’s return will reignite competition for places and bolster Bath’s back row strength.
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Speaking ahead of the season’s end, van Graan said: “Jaco is on the road to recovery and, like Will Stuart with his Achilles injury, he is expected back next season. We’ll see him wearing the blue, black, and white again at the start of the campaign.
“He is one of the premier ball carriers in the league and plays a distinct role in our squad wearing the 23 jersey. His two-year contract means he remains a vital part of our plans.”
Van Graan also drew parallels with other Springbok stars who overcame multiple ACL injuries, citing RG Snyman, Arno Botha, and Duane Vermeulen, all of whom returned to win World Cups.
“Injury risk is always present, but Jaco is a fighter,” van Graan added. “His physical style of play contributes to these challenges, but he has the determination and support to make a comeback.”
Despite a difficult injury history that includes a serious ankle injury and concussions, Coetzee is set to use the upcoming season to prove his value and resilience.