Johann van Graan: Bath head of rugby signs new deal until 2030

Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan has signed a new long-term contract with the Premiership side until the end of the 2029-30 campaign.

The South African joined in 2022 from Munster and has led a transformation in fortunes, with the side currently third in the league table.

They reached the knock-out stages of the European Champions Cup this season for the first time since 2015 and are challenging for a top-four Premiership place for the first time in four years.

“I am loving the journey we are on,” Van Graan, 44, said.

“The journey we have been on together as players and staff since I joined has been about getting better every day, becoming a team that’s tough to beat, and creating an identity that can deliver success over the long-term – the best is yet to come.”

Since Van Graan’s arrival, the coaching staff at the Recreation Ground have been overhauled while a number of players have been brought in, including Scotland fly-half Finn Russell, England centre Ollie Lawrence, South Africa prop Thomas du Toit and forwards Alfie Barbeary and Ted Hill.

Players such as scrum-half and club captain Ben Spencer, winger Will Muir and hooker Tom Dunn have also enjoyed some of their best campaigns.

“Since joining us in 2022, Johann and his team have delivered a revival on the pitch, created a genuine team ethos, and built belief in what Bath can achieve,” said Bath chief executive Tarquin McDonald.

“There is a clear vision, alignment, and pride in the shirt.

“These are exciting times for the club. We have big ambitions for rugby success, to grow the game, and to regenerate the riverside with an amazing new home for the club.”