IN. ALL IN TO WIN! part 2

Last week I looked at the challenges Bath face building repeat success on last season’s triumphant campaign. These included rival challengers, the need for a fast start and player workload management.

Next is the form of new signings and how quickly they integrate into the gameplan. Can Dan Frost, so visible in open play, take on the “Mr Reliable” mantle from Niall Annett? Has Harry Arundell’s move revitalised his form and how will his maverick temperament adapt to the discipline of Bath’s press defence and aerial chase game? What of Santi Carreras, comparatively quiet for Argentina against England and where will he play in the early rounds? Can Chris Harris fill the shoes of Ollie Lawrence and dovetail effectively with the other centres?

Then there are the demands of international selection. Bagging three trophies has put Bath players firmly on national radars. As well as those engaged this summer Ollie Lawrence, hopefully returning from injury by mid-autumn, is established in England ranks and others, surely must be in consideration. Who would bet against Obano, Richards, Reid, De Glanville or Donoghue getting a call up at some stage, if only for an “A” team? Few internationals clash with Premiership fixtures now but every representative match adds to the challenge of player workload and the maximum 30 game involvement.

Of course it is not just about the players. Bath’s coaching team of complimentary talents are winning plaudits and attracting the attention of national selectors. While Rassie Erasmus remains secure as  Springbok Head Coach, there is much speculation that Johann van Graan is targeted by South Africa to be his successor. Lee Blackett revitalised England’s attack in Argentina – as England aim to expand their game, could he be approached to take over from Richard Wigglesworth? Wales were rumoured to be interested in him as their attack lead too. Bath Rugby, quite rightly do not comment on such speculation, but have confirmed that the whole coaching team have committed their futures contractually to Bath for several years.

That reassurance means fans can look forward to a period of stability. Stability that is so vital to sustained success. The longest run of Premiership wins in the professional era belongs to Leicester Tigers: 4 years from 1999-2002. Tigers lead the “Table of Champions” with 11 titles. Bath come second with 7, which may surprise younger fans given our years of frustration. Of those, 4 in a row were won from 1991-1994 just before professionalism dawned: indeed 6 titles came in a 9-year period between 1988 and 1996.

So, can Bath build a dynasty like Tigers, Wasps and Saracens in the past? Notably all three also enjoyed success- more than once-in Europe in those years of dominance. Given van Graan’s fondness for European tournaments we must assume that the Champions Cup is a key ambition. Whether that proves to be a spur or a distraction from domestic silverware remains to be seen.

To return to the question, absolutely! Clearly arrogance and complacency must be avoided- surely not a problem under van Graan? With the squad depth built so carefully over 3 seasons, a settled and innovative coaching team and a collection of talented players (proven and potential) there is plenty to be optimistic about.

In. All In To Win!