Bath chair leaves after six months

ONE of the worst seasons in Bath’s 157-year history took another dramatic turn yesterday when chairman Edward Griffiths left the club after less than six months at the helm.

Having initially joined in a consultancy role, the former Saracens chief replaced owner Bruce Craig as chairman at the start of the year — taking control of matters on and off the field at the rec.

Sportsmail understands Griffiths’ no-nonsense methods were unpopular with senior Bath figures and his exit will not be mourned.

The news was confirmed by Bath as part of a wider restructuring of the club, with current director of rugby Stuart Hooper becoming general manager.

Incoming head coach Johann van Graan — currently in charge of Munster — will be titled head of rugby when he joins Bath in July.

Craig said: ‘We thank Edward for all he has done helping us refocus. He brought expertise, knowledge and experience and leaves us in a significantly stronger position.’

Bath added in a statement: ‘Griffiths was contracted to lead Bath rugby’s performance reset and many of his recommendations have now been implemented.’

Bath are second bottom of the Premiership having won just five league games all season. They would be in danger of relegation were the division not ringfenced.

Tarquin McDonald, Bath’s chief executive, hopes the restructure and review undertaken by Griffiths will help them climb up the table in the campaigns to come.

‘This reset will provide the foundations for a revival for the club over the coming seasons,’ he said.

Elsewhere, England training squad member Tom Pearson has signed his first professional deal with London Irish.