A small number of the current Under-18s group were involved in four fixtures arranged at the backend of last season but the squad have otherwise had their game time restricted due to the Covid pandemic.

Led by Academy coaches Nathan Catt and Louis Messer, the young Blue, Black and Whites will end the calendar year on the road at Saracens before starting 2022 with back-to-back home matches against Exeter Chiefs (at Marlborough College) and London Irish (Chippenham RFC).

The Under-18s will head to Harlequins in late January before concluding their South Group pool stage on Saturday 12 February with another local rivalry against Gloucester.

Finals Day will take place at the end of February.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing our Under-18s in competitive action,” Academy Manager Craig Lilley said.

“Covid has hampered the game time for players of this age over the past couple of years and we are grateful to the RFU and PRL for ensuring the league can go ahead in a safe environment for players and staff.

“The group have put in a huge amount of effort over the past few months, as have the staff, in order to continue their learning on the training field and their physical development in the gym. Nathan Catt and Louis Messer will lead the team for the season we are excited to see their development as coaches too.

“It’s great to start with a West Country derby against Bristol Bears at Chippenham RFC.

"Games with Bristol at this level are always competitive and we are excited to see the lads out on the field, putting their learnings into practice.”

Bath Rugby Under-18s Fixtures – Premiership Rugby U18 League

R1: Bristol Bears U18 - Friday 17 December, 19:30 kick-off, Chippenham RFC

R2: Saracens U18 – Thursday 23 December, 13:30 kick-off, Harpenden RFC

R3: Exeter Chiefs U18 – Saturday 8 January, 13:00 kick-off, Marlborough College

R4: London Irish U18 – Saturday 15 January, 12:15 kick-off, Chippenham RFC

R5: Harlequins U18 – Saturday 22 January, 14:00 kick-off, TBC

R6: BYE WEEK

R7: Gloucester U18 – Saturday 12 February, 14:00 kick-off, Kingsholm

Bath Rugby U18 to start Academy League with West Country derby

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