Bath statement: Appointment of Ben Spencer as new club captain

Ben Spencer has been named Bath club captain for the 2022/23 season. The England scrum-half arrived at The Rec for the post-lockdown restart of the 2019/20 campaign in August 2020 after nine seasons at Saracens and he now takes over from Charlie Ewels, who is set to miss the majority of the new season following his serious injury while on tour with England in Australia.

A club statement read: “Bath Rugby is delighted to confirm Ben Spencer as club captain for the 2022/23 season. The 30-year-old has made over 50 appearances for the Blue, Black and White since making a try-scoring debut against London Irish in 2020.

“Spencer is a favourite with supporters, winning the Bath Rugby supporters’ club unsung hero and player of the season awards, and is a determined individual who drives high standards within the group.

“He has previously held a leadership role at the club and has previous experience of being on-field captain during his time at The Rec.”

New head of Rugby Johann van Graan said: “Ben is a fantastic player, but most importantly a fantastic man. He is a highly respected individual in our squad and cares deeply about his teammates, the support staff and Bath Rugby.

“On the field, he is a competitor, leads by example and is a quality communicator, not only through word but via his actions too. Ben is consistent in his approach week by week and continues to push everyone to be the best version of themselves. We are delighted he will be our captain for the 2022/23 season.”

Spencer added: “I’m hugely proud and honoured to be captain of the club. Ever since I joined the club it’s been an aim of mine to be in the leadership group. There are a lot of strong leaders within this group and hopefully we can work together this year and get the boys firing.”