Verden given loan switch
Stuart Hooper has explained why he has sent senior academy prop Kieran Verden out on loan to Gallagher Premiership rivals Worcester Warriors immediately on a short-term deal.
Tighthead prop Verden, 22, is a former England youth international and captained the Blue, Black and White’s academy side having come from Beechen Cliff School.
He made his Bath Rugby senior debut in the 40-15 win against Warriors back in September.
Bath director of rugby Hooper said: “Kieran is a brilliant individual who works extremely hard and has been outstanding in setting standards within our squad.
“He is a big part of our future at Bath Rugby and this move is a huge opportunity for him to gain some more experience at the top of the English game.
“COVID-19 has caused a lot of issues, one of those being playing time for our younger players.
“We have been looking for alternatives to get these players some game time to aid their development and we see this as one of those for Kieran.”
Verden trained at Sixways before coming on as a second half replacement in Warriors’ European Challenge Cup opening 24-20 defeat against Pau at the Stade du Hameau on Saturday.
“We are very appreciative for Bath loaning Kieran Verden,” said Warriors director of rugby Alan Solomons.
“Kieran is a good young prospect who has slotted in well here and I’m sure that he will give a good account of himself at the weekend.” ■■ WOODEN Spoon Bristol, Bath and Somerset are excited to announce their Christmas Raffle to help children living with disadvantage, disability or long-term illness in the local area. The online raffle includes an incredible array of prizes to help raise funds for the charity. The tickets are £5 with the draw being made on January 3 by Honorary President Bob Reeves.
Currently prizes on offer include a free kitchen design from AP Kitchens, a granite chopping board, a signed copy of ‘At Least We Turn Up’, a Fourball round at Celtic Manor, a Bristol Bears signed European ‘Thinkers’ top, an Aldwick Vineyard tour for two, wine from Simon Halliday, dinner for two at The Elder, a Baton Rouge Soprano Ukelele with a two hour lesson, a signed rugby biography of Jeremy Guscott, a bottle of vintage champagne, a signed rugby biography of Gavin Hastings, a Willie John Mcbride limited edition print, annual membership to the Wood Spoon and a signed Bath shirt.