Bath Rugby Bids Farewell to Departing Captain Josh McNally

Rollercoaster of Highs and Lows

On the final day of 2023, Bath Rugby bid farewell to their former captain, Josh McNally, as the club announced his departure at the end of the current Gallagher Premiership season. The 33-year-old lock, who joined Bath in 2019, has made an indelible mark on the team, racking up 84 appearances over the past five years.

McNally’s time at the Rec has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but the former RAF technician has left an enduring legacy. The powerhouse forward earned his solitary England cap in 2021 under the stewardship of Eddie Jones, a testament to his talent and tenacity on the pitch.

Preparations for the Final Match

Despite his limited game time this season, with his last appearance coming in January, the West Country outfit have already secured the services of Leinster lock Ross Molony for the upcoming campaign, signaling their commitment to strengthening their roster.

As Bath prepares to host Gallagher Premiership leaders Northampton Saints in the final regular-season match, McNally’s departure serves as a bittersweet moment. A win for the home side will secure their place in the semi-finals, potentially extending the 125kg forward’s tenure with the club by another week.

Heartfelt Farewell and Gratitude

In a heartfelt farewell, McNally expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to don the iconic Bath jersey, saying, “It’s been a true honour to have had the opportunity to wear the Blue, Black and White, to represent everyone who works for this club, and to represent this great city.” The departing player also acknowledged the pivotal role played by his teammates, coaches, and staff in shaping his journey, stating, “Thank you to all the players, coaches and staff over the last five years who have pushed me, guided me and put me back together along the way.”

Bath’s director of rugby, Johann van Graan, praised McNally’s contributions both on and off the field, describing him as “a very good rugby player, a consistent and dependable leader but most importantly, a great team man.” Van Graan added, “He leaves Bath Rugby in a better place, and I wish him and his family the very best. Josh will make a success in whatever he chooses to do in life!”

As the curtain falls on McNally’s tenure at Bath, the club and its loyal fans will undoubtedly reflect on the indelible mark he has left, both as a player and a leader. The bbc rugby union community bids farewell to this rugby union stalwart, wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.

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