Johann van Graan hailed Irish international second-row Quinn Roux as one of the most important players in the Bath Rugby squad as he explained why he has handed the 34-year-old a one-year contract extension at the Premiership club.

The second row has made 41 appearances in the Blue, Black and White since signing from French side RC Toulon in the summer of 2022 initially as injury cover.

READ MORE: 'Huge presence' - Bath Rugby confirm new contract for England international forward

READ MORE: Bristol Airport investigation as WHSmith stores close after 'security breach'

READ MORE: Man dies after incident outside South West Lidl supermarket

Bath head of rugby van Graan said: “Quinn has quietly become one of our most consistent and important players since he joined Bath. His actions speak louder than his words, specifically in the scrum, the maul, and at the breakdown. Quinn is a family man and has made Bath his home, which is great news for all involved at the club.”

Born in South Africa, Roux played for Western Province and Stormers before joining Leinster Rugby in 2012, winning the 2012/13 Challenge Cup. He signed with Connacht in 2015, playing more than 100 times and earning a call-up to the Ireland national team, making his international debut in 2016. Roux, who has worn the green jersey 16 times, made the move to RC Toulon in 2021 before transitioning to Bath a year later.

On signing his contract extension, the 34-year-old said: “I am excited to continue on the journey with this group. I love working with the people we have at this club and playing in front of our fans at The Rec. Me and my family are very happy to be staying on in Bath.”