Bath Rugby sign South African full-back with immediate effect

Bath Rugby have signed former Jersey Reds full-back Brendan Owen on a short-term contract with immediate effect, the club have officially confirmed.

The 27-year-old South African, who began his career at the Blue Blues, was a free agent after the Reds ceased trading in September and went into administration and moves to the Rec just days after former England international Piers Francis left the Premiership club to join Japanese side Kurita Water Gush Akishima Rugby Club. Owen's previous clubs include Australian sides Western Force, Perth Spirit, San Dona in Italy, and Boland Cavaliers in South Africa.

The 6ft 3in, 97kg back has already played at the Recreation Ground this season after starting at full-back for Jersey when the Championship side beat a young Bath side 34-10 in the Premiership Rugby Cup back in September. Owen was part of the Jersey squad that won the Championship in 2022/23 having joined the club in 2019.

The Blue, Black and White are yet to confirm if anyone is injured in their backs division to warrant the new signing, with Tom de Glanville starting in the 15 jersey this afternoon against Northampton Saints with England U20s star Sam Harris providing cover on the bench. Should Harris feature it will be his Premiership debut. Matt Gallagher is not involved at Franklin's Gardens.

Bath Rugby sign South African full-back with immediate effect

References