Bath promote Zach Mercer

Bath Rugby have announced that, New Zealand born, back rower Zach Mercer has signed a senior contract with the club promoting him to the senior squad. Mercer has committed to the club until the end of the 2018/19.

Mercer is the son of New Zealand Rugby League international, Gary Mercer. Mercer made his debut for Bath in September 2016 against Newcastle and has since become a regular in the first team.

Mercer is an all-round flanker as he is a strong ball carrier and a solid tackler and he will be able to show these qualities For England during the U20 Six Nations that kicks off on Saturday.

Mercer commented:

“I didn’t hesitate to extend my contract with Bath, as this is where I see my future. There is a real emphasis on developing players and the coaches have real faith in you, which as a young player at the start of my career I really value. There’s a fantastic atmosphere around the Club, it’s a very ambitious place, and I’m really looking forward to being part of that over the coming seasons.

It’s been a breakthrough year for me and to be playing regularly in the first team is a great feeling. It’s going to be a huge second half of the season and I’m really looking forward to playing my part on and off the field.”

Todd Blackadder, Bath Director of Rugby:

“Zach is one of the brightest prospects in English rugby and a huge part of the future at the Club. We are thrilled to have secured his services and he will undoubtedly be a huge asset over the next few years.

“He has shown maturity beyond his years in the way he has stepped up to the first team and he has taken full advantage of his opportunities. There is a real focus here to develop the guys to not only play for Bath, but also to establish them at international level, which is a real target for someone like Zach.”