Bath Rugby fans, rejoice! Club captain Ben Spencer has put pen to paper on a new three-year contract, keeping him at the Rec until 2028.
The England international arrived from Saracens in 2020 and has since become a cornerstone of Johann van Graan’s side, making 108 appearances and leading the team to their first Premiership Final in nine years last season.
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
"We're only getting started" – Spencer on new deal
Spencer couldn’t hide his excitement about the future at Bath, saying:
“We have loved our time at Bath so far, as a family we have really settled here. We have a special group of players and staff, and I believe we’re only just scratching the surface of what we can achieve.”
Van Graan hails his skipper
Head coach Johann van Graan was full of praise for his captain:
“Ben is not only a world-class player but a true leader. He has that special game-winning ability that inspires those around him. Time and again, he’s stepped up on the biggest stage and is a huge part of our journey at the club.”
EDITORS PICKS:
- ‘My rugby career was ended by Maro Itoje, I now have a completely new career’
- Bad News for Rugby Fans: 2027 World Cup Heading Behind a Paywall
- Lions fly-half rules himself out of Andy Farrell’s 2025 tour selection
- Fiji set to face England in a thrilling lineup of four blockbuster fixtures
- Leaked England selection suggests Marcus Smith has been DROPPED
Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start
Bookmakers have released their predictions for the British & Irish Lions' starting XV to face Australia in the 2025 tour, highlighting a squad dominated by Irish talent and featuring only one English starter.
The anticipated lineup, along with the latest odds for each position, is as follows:
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland’s pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland’s recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he’ll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster’s second row. He’s quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England’s standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl’s dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
Backs
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/3
Originally from New Zealand, Gibson-Park has revolutionized Ireland’s attack with his fast tempo and crisp distribution. His quick decision-making will be key in Australia.
10. Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/4
A mercurial fly-half known for his creativity, pinpoint kicking, and unpredictable attacking play, Russell is the X-factor the Lions will need to unlock Australia’s defence.
11. James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
A powerful winger with a cannon of a left boot, Lowe has been a game-changer for Ireland, providing pace, physicality, and superb finishing ability.
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
One of the most destructive centres in world rugby, Aki blends power with slick handling and defensive solidity. His recent form makes him a nailed-on Lions starter.
13. Huw Jones (Scotland) – 1/2
A classy centre with a sharp rugby brain, Jones is known for his attacking lines, pace, and ability to break defences. He has returned to top form for Scotland.
14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
A giant winger with terrifying pace and strength, Van der Merwe has been a try-scoring machine for Scotland and was one of the stars of the 2021 Lions tour.
15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
One of the most consistent full-backs in world rugby, Keenan is rock solid under the high ball, defensively sound, and a dangerous attacking threat.
This projection underscores Ireland's strong presence, with ten players expected to start, reflecting their recent dominance in international rugby. Scotland contributes three players, notably in key backline positions, while England's representation is limited to Maro Itoje in the forwards.
The selection process for the Lions is always a topic of intense debate, influenced by players' form, fitness, and performances in the lead-up to the tour. As the 2025 tour approaches, these odds may shift, especially with upcoming international fixtures and domestic competitions providing players with opportunities to stake their claims.
Note: The odds presented are based on current bookmaker predictions and are subject to change as the tour date nears.
RUGBY QUIZ:
Think you know your Six Nations history? Put your rugby knowledge to the test with this quiz!
Can you name the top eight try-scorers in Six Nations history? These players have lit up the competition with their incredible finishing ability, and now it's your turn to see if you can match their achievements.
You’ve got three minutes on the clock—let's see how many you can get! Ready, set, go!
