Bath part ways with attack coach Gleeson after one season as Prendergast circles

Bath Rugby have confirmed that backs and attack coach Martin Gleeson has left the club after a single season in the role, with the search for his replacement already gathering momentum.

Gleeson joined Bath in October 2025, stepping in after Lee Blackett departed to take up the attack coach position with England. Despite Bath scoring 102 tries in the Premiership season — matching the previous campaign’s return — the attack was widely considered to have underperformed relative to expectations.

A decorated rugby league figure, Gleeson represented both England and Great Britain in the 13-man code and played for Wigan Warriors, Huddersfield Giants, St Helens and Salford City Reds. He moved into coaching with Warrington Wolves in Super League before switching codes, taking roles at Wasps and with the England rugby union setup prior to his arrival at Bath.

“I’d like to thank Johann for the opportunity this season to come to Bath and work with some amazing staff and talented players,” Gleeson said in a statement. “It’s been a great season and I wish the club all the success in the future.”

Bath’s Head of Rugby, Johann van Graan, paid tribute to the departing coach. “We want to thank Gleese for the contribution he has made and we wish him the very best for his future ahead,” van Graan said.

Attention now turns to who will fill the vacancy. Mike Prendergast, who recently left Munster, is strongly tipped as the frontrunner for the role. Former Bath centre Mike Catt is also available after being released by Super Rugby side the Waratahs, adding another credible name to the shortlist.

The coaching reshuffle comes at a delicate moment for Bath, who have re-established themselves as Premiership contenders in recent seasons but were reminded by Exeter this term that sustained success at the top level is never guaranteed.