Finn Russell limped off and looked extremely uncomfortable during Saturday’s Champions Cup match against Exeter Chiefs.
The Scotland fly-half was sent off in the first half of a match against fellow England internationals when he tried to scramble for the ball at a breakdown.
Russell tried to get a hand out and potentially turn it over, but was left clean out in an awkward position.
in pain
He made a very discreet exit and was replaced by youngster Orlando Bailey, who had recently signed a new contract with the West Country Club.
Finn Russell’s red card after 15 minutes was a huge blow for Bath Rugby, but could it be a game-changing moment? 🛁
I wish Finn a speedy recovery 💪
watch live @tntsports, @beinsports_FR, @SuperSportTV and @frorugby 📺#InvestecChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/dd5fPj9bQX
— Investec Champions Cup (@ChampionsCup) April 6, 2024
Depending on the severity of the injury, it could be a blow to Bath, who have had a much improved year, ahead of the restart of the season.
The Scottish playmaker has been at the center of it all, helping them become genuine title challengers.
They currently sit second in the Premiership with eight wins from 14 games and 12 bonus points.
Russell has transformed the attack and is a threat both domestically and in Europe, but a long-term injury could prove fatal for Bath.
Scotland will travel to the Americas in the summer, playing against Canada, the United States, Chile and Uruguay.
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defense
His Bath team-mates deserve credit for handling the setback well, defending with their lives as Exeter Chiefs attacked.
Chiefs were in control for much of the first half, but the visitors converted two chances and Thomas du Toit continued his fine season with another try.
Alfie Barbeary’s mistake on the restart allowed Ross Vincent to run through the whitewash to put the hosts ahead, but the visitors hit back.
Ted Hill is serious 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐄𝐋𝐒 🔥#EXEvBAT | #InvestecChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/BSBAB8Pd3F
— TNT Sports Rugby (@rugbyontnt) April 6, 2024
Ben Spencer’s box kick was brilliantly collected by Ted Hill halfway. The versatile forward, who can play lock and blindside flanker, still had a lot of work to do, but showed incredible speed.
Hill was being chased by speedy Josh Hodge and New England winger Immanuel Fay-Waboso, but he was able to shake them off as Bath went into the break trailing 12-7.
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