Nahum Merigan’s first league start was followed up by a Premiership debut for Tom Carr-Smith while Sam Harris and Louie Hennessey debuted in the Cup against Gloucester.

Harris has also starred for the University of Bath, coached by Mark Lilley and Ryan Davis, with 11 Academy players featuring in total across their three matches so far this season.

Coventry have welcomed Frankie Read, Archie Maggs and George Worboys into their squad for Championship action and Hartpury have selected Merigan, Ethan Staddon and John Stewart. Ciaran Donoghue enjoyed time with Dings Crusaders on Saturday, scoring 22 points including two tries in a 52-10 win over Barnstaple in National 2 West.

“It has been great to see so many of our young players continue their development in a variety of ways,” Academy Manager Craig Lilley said.

“We said before the start of the season we wanted to expose as many of our young players to competitive rugby as we could and so far so good.

“No matter the environment, each player has conducted themselves fantastically, representing the club in the best possible light.”

THE RECCY: WHAT TO EXPECT ON WEDNESDAY

In the first round of the Premiership Rugby Cup, Bath Rugby fielded 17 homegrown players and the focus on youth, blended with experience, is expected for Wednesday’s match against Bristol Bears.

“For some of our players it will be the first time they have played in a West Country derby against Bristol,” Lilley said.

“It will be a great experience for them, especially at The Rec in front of a strong crowd, and we are excited by the challenge that awaits.”

MATCH DETAILS - Bath Rugby v bristol bears

When: Wednesday 19 October, 19:45
Where: The Rec
Competition: Premiership Rugby Cup
Coverage: Match Centre, BBC Radio Bristol
Referee: Joe James
Assistant Referees: Charlie Gayfer & Ian Bibey

TICKETS

Join us at The Rec to watch some up and coming Bath Rugby stars against our local rivals!

SEE YOU ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT!

bristol bears PROFILE

Formed: 1888
Stadium: Ashton Gate
Director of Rugby: Pat Lam
Captain: Steven Luatua
Finish last season: 10^th

HONOURS

European Challenge Cup: 2019/20
RFU Championship: 1998/99, 2004/05, 2015/16, 2017/18
Anglo-Welsh Cup: 1982/83
British & Irish Cup: 2010/11
EDF Energy Trophy: 2003/04
Anglo-Welsh Merit Table Winner: 1965/66, 1971/72, 1973/74
RFU South West Merit Table Winners: 1979/80, 1980/81, 1981/82

ONE TO WATCH – DEAGO BAILEY

Deago Bailey agreed professional terms with Bristol Bears Academy in the summer of 2020 after impressing for the club's Under-18 side. A product of SGS Filton College and Dings Crusaders RFC, the powerful and dynamic has represented England Under-20s and made his competitive debut for Bristol in the Premiership Rugby Cup last season.

TRY REWIND

While the result was one to forget, homegrown back row Mackenzie Graham had a moment to remember as he ran in from 40 metres for his first senior try on his senior Bath Rugby debut against Bristol Bears.

TICKETS: join us at the rec

Next three at The Rec:

Bristol Bears, Wed 19 Oct, 19:45 (Premiership Rugby Cup)
The Double Header! Northampton Saints + Bath Rugby Ladies, Sat 22 Oct
Leicester Tigers, Fri 11 Nov, 19:45

We look forward to you joining us!

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Bath Rugby’s Match Preview is delivered to you by Huboo – the club’s Official Training Wear Partner. For more information on Huboo, visit www.huboo.com

Huboo Match Preview: Bristol Bears (H - Prem Cup)

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