On-loan Coetzee returns to Cheetahs

PROP forward Aranos Coetzee’s short-term spell at Bath Rugby has come to an end.

The Namabia international tighthead was signed as temporary injury cover from South African franchise the Cheetahs during the summer.

He made his Blue, Black & Whites debut on the opening day of the Gallagher Premiership season against Bristol Bears and provided a strong, experienced option in the front row, making five appearances in total.

A statement from Bath Rugby said: “Off the field, Aranos fitted in seamlessly with the group and was a great addition to the squad.

“Everyone at Bath would like to thank him for his contribution while at the Rec and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Coetzee, 34, departs with Bath’s tighthead resources improving as England’ man Will Stuart has recovered from the knee injury he sustained against Saracens and this week has been training with the national side ahead of facing New Zealand on Saturday in the Autumn Nation Series.

Fears over the fitness of D’Arcy Rae, who left the field early in Bath’s win over Leicester Tigers on Friday night, were allayed by head of rugby Johann van Graan post-match, who explained the one-cap Scotland international had been suffering with illness before kick-off, which is why he came off.

He was replaced by the South African Johannes Jonker, with Kieran Verden and Archie Griffin other emerging options within the Bath squad.