Matt to move on after ‘really cool experience’

VERSATILE back Matt Gallagher will leave Bath Rugby at the end of this season to join Italian outfit Benetton,

The 27-year-old, who can play on the wing or at full-back, will depart after two seasons at the Blue, Black & Whites, having made 35 appearances so far, scoring eight tries. Gallagher signed from Munster in the summer of 2022 and had been linked with a return to the Irish province.

Gallagher has signed a three-year contract with the United Rugby Championship side, joining winger Louis Lynagh as their latest eyecatching signings. Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan said: “I wish Matt the very best. I signed him as a younger player at Munster and then at Bath as a seasoned back three player. He had a fantastic season last year with us and he has continued his excellent form into this season.

“I want to thank Matt (pictured) for his contribution to Bath Rugby. He is a true professional and, more importantly, he is a brilliant team man and human being.”

Gallagher, who came through the academy at Saracens before moving to Munster, added: “I’ve loved my time at Bath Rugby, every single moment of it. The boys have been fantastic ever since I walked through the door and Bath being a big rugby city and the Rec being in the middle, it has been a really cool experience.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to the fans. They’ve only shown encouragement to me and the rest of the players through the tough times and the good. No matter what, whether it’s been in the pouring rain or in glorious sunshine, they’ve been absolutely fantastic to me and made me feel very welcome. These last two years, I will never forget them.”