Bath tie down Scotland flanker Josh Bayliss on long-term deal

Bath flanker Josh Bayliss has signed a new deal with the club, keeping him at the Rec until 2027.

The Bath academy product has made 110 appearances for the club since making his debut in 2016 against Leicester Tigers in the LV Cup. He has earned five caps for Scotland in that time after making his international debut in 2021.

The 26-year-old is capable of playing across the back row and has shifted into the second row for Bath before as well. On top of that, Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan even said that he has the ability to fill in across the back line, which is a level of versatility that is eagerly sought after by any coach.

This latest deal comes after a spate of re-signings at Bath in January, as the West Country outfit look beyond this season. Sitting in second place in the Gallagher Premiership and in the round of 16 in the Investec Champions Cup, Bath are having a strong campaign and will be able to hold onto the bulk of their squad for the succeeding seasons.

Bayliss said after signing: “I owe so much to Bath. The city, the club and most importantly the people.

“I’m very fortunate to be able to pull on the jersey that represents this. I’m privileged and happy to have the chance to do that for another few years.”

Van Graan added: “Speed is one of Josh’s main attributes. The fact that he can play across the back row, he’s a line-out caller and he can play across the back line if needed which makes Josh a true asset to our club. Josh is a key member of our journey on and off the pitch.”