Scotland star Finn Russell is preparing for a fiery reunion with his international colleagues, targeting crucial "bragging rights" when his Bath side hosts Edinburgh in a decisive European Champions Cup encounter this Friday.
A Physical Battle and Friendly Warnings
The high-stakes Pool 2 match at the Recreation Ground will see the victorious team finish top, securing a coveted home draw for the knockout stages. Russell, who knows the Edinburgh squad intimately, is expecting a fiercely physical contest. The fly-half has already sent a playful but pointed text message to Edinburgh's powerful winger and fellow Scot, Duhan van der Merwe, telling him to "be ready."
"I'd imagine there'll be a couple of late shots and being held on the ground which is always the case when you're against your old side," said Russell, referencing his early career at Glasgow Warriors. He highlighted the potential for an aerial battle depending on the weather, adding that the result would provide ample ammunition for winding each other up ahead of the upcoming Six Nations championship.
Bath's Attack in Focus After Coaching Change
Russell also revealed that Bath are working to elevate their attacking game following recent high-scoring defeats to Toulon and Northampton Saints. The departure of attack coach Lee Blackett to the England setup has led to a period of adjustment under his replacement, Martin Gleeson.
"Since the November Tests we've spoken more about playing more expansively like we used to," Russell explained. He noted the coaches have different philosophies, but the team has been adapting. "In the last few games we've gone slightly wider off 10. We have probably had more joy with that, focusing a little bit more on multi-phase and trying to take teams apart like that."
Despite this focus on width, Russell was quick to praise Bath's formidable forward pack, suggesting a balanced approach of pick-and-go drives and expansive backline play would be key against Edinburgh.
Embracing the Pressure of Being Champions
Bath's head coach, Johann van Graan, acknowledged the increased scrutiny on his team and star player following their triple-trophy haul last season. "If you are a player with Finn's talent, sometimes an 8/10 performance isn't good enough for some people," van Graan stated, while expressing his satisfaction with Russell's form and influence.
"Having won three trophies we've had a target on our backs since round one," he added, framing the pressure as a challenge to be embraced. "The moment you stand still in sport is the moment you fall off it."
In other rugby news, Gloucester have continued to strengthen their pack for next season by agreeing a deal to sign Springbok lock Jean Kleyn from Munster this summer. Additionally, the Scarlets have appointed former Wales coach Nigel Davies as their interim director of rugby with immediate effect.
