Just in: Bath Rugby confirm new deal for international winger

Ruaridh McConnochie, a former sevens standout, has committed to Bath for another season.

Former England international winger Ruaridh McConnochie has signed a contract extension with Bath Rugby that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2025.

The winger’s current contract was set to expire at the end of the season, with the Newcastle Falcons reportedly interested in bringing him to Kingston Park next season, but the 32-year-old, who has fallen down the pecking order at the Rec under Johann van Graan, has now signed a one-year extension.

So far this season, the former Olympian and GB sevens silver medalist from Rio 2016 has scored two tries, one against Saracens at the start of the season and one more recently against Harlequins, to add to the 19 he has previously scored for Bath Rugby since joining the club in 2018.

On signing a new contract with Bath, McConnochie, who was recently called up to train with the Scottish national team after earning two caps for England in 2019 and finishing second at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, said: “I owe a lot to this special club because it was the only one that gave me a chance coming from sevens in 2018. I still believe I can contribute both on and off the field as this group evolves and be a part of a team that wins silverware for this city. Thank you to Johann for providing me this opportunity.”

Johann van Graan, Bath’s head of rugby, said: “Ruaridh is a true professional, a club guy who always gives his all for the team. He is also an outstanding rugby player, particularly in the air, an excellent communicator, and a great finisher. I am delighted that he is remaining at Bath Rugby.”

Next season, once again McConnochie will compete for playing time on the wings with Joe Cokanasiga, Will Muir and Tom de Glanville, as well as new signings Regan Grace and Austin Emens.