Bath endured a challenging 2015/16 season but with that behind them and a fresh start ahead although Bath’s cards remain close to their chest with regards to appointing a coach a number of new faces have already been added to the Bath squad.
Jack Walker
Age: 20
Position: Hooker
Signed From: Yorkshire Carnegie
Honours: England U16, U17, U18, U19 and U20
The England under 20’s captain is a hugely promising hooker and could fill the void left by Rob Webber who has joined Sale Sharks. Walker is a very athletic hooker expect to see him make the odd burst upfield over the course of the season.
Michael van Vuuren
Age: 24
Position: Hooker
Signed From: Leicester Tigers
Honours: South Africa U20
Another addition to the front row brings valuable experience from Super Rugby as well as a short spell at Bath’s oldest rivals Leicester. The 24 year old will hope to become a big part of the team and try and push for a place alongside youngsters Walker and Dunn and the experienced Ross Batty.
Luke Charteris
Age: 33
Position: Lock
Signed From: Racing Metro 92
Honours: Wales U19, U21 and Wales
A hugely experienced lock who has been massively influential for Wales over the past 12 years since making his debut. The lock studied at the University of Bath before moving back to Wales to play professional rugby. He should be able to provide experience to replace that lost by retiring captain Stuart Hooper.
Elliott Stooke
Age: 22
Position: Lock
Signed From: Gloucester Rugby
Honours: England U20 and England Saxons
The young lock is another addition to the tight five for Bath. His loan spell at London Irish showed just what an asset he can be in the line out despite an awful season for the Exiles. Bath will be hoping the former Gloucester lock can build on that potential shown whilst he is at the Recreation Ground.
Taulupe Faletau
Age: 25
Position: Number Eight
Signed From: Newport/ Gwent Dragons
Honours: Wales U20, Wales and British and Irish Lions
Faletau the biggest name arriving at Bath after Wales’ tour of New Zealand. He is a force of nature regularly making World XV’s around the pubs and clubhouses of the world. With both Mafi and Fa’osiliva leaving the club he should more than fill the void and at only 25 he still has many years left in him.
Kahn Fotuali’i
Age: 34
Position: Scrum-Half
Signed From: Northampton Saints
Honours: Samoa
The Samoan man should be a good addition to Bath and could act as a mentor to Bath’s three young scrum-halves. His pace set him apart and he should be able to provide the quick ball to the backs that was lacking last year.
Harry Davies
Age: 22
Position: Wing
Signed From: Cardiff Blues
Honours: Wales U20
Not much is known about Bath’s young winger. He is 6’4” and 16 stone so looks a real threat. The Welshman looks like a real man for the future as he joins up with a rather strong Welsh contingent at Bath.
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