Bath sign Argentina youth prop Camerlinckx to shore up depleted tight-head options

Bath Rugby have signed Argentinian tight-head prop Marcos Camerlinckx from Super Rugby Americas Championship-winning franchise Pampas XV, with the 22-year-old set to make his club debut off the bench against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on Saturday.

The arrival addresses an immediate depth problem at tight-head for Bath. Internationals Archie Griffin and Will Stuart are away on duty with Wales and England respectively during the Nations Championship, while Billy Sela is currently sidelined through injury. Kieran Verden has been handed the starting No.3 jersey for the Exeter fixture, with Camerlinckx providing cover from the bench.

Camerlinckx comes to Bath with a solid grounding in South American rugby, having previously played for Club Regatas de Bella Vista in the first division of the Unión de Rugby de Buenos Aires before stepping up to Pampas XV. He has represented Argentina at Under-20 and Argentina XV level and brings additional versatility, having also played hooker.

He is the son of former Argentine No.8 Pablo Camerlinckx, adding a notable rugby lineage to his profile.

“I’m really happy to be here at Bath Rugby. It’s been an amazing experience so far, both on and off the pitch,” Camerlinckx said. “I’m really enjoying being part of the club, getting to know everyone and learning every day. I’m very grateful for this opportunity and excited for what’s to come.”

Bath’s Head of Rugby Johann van Graan welcomed the signing with measured optimism. “We are looking forward to seeing how Marcos will develop his game over the next period of time and I am sure he will fit into our group very well.”

Also in line for a milestone appearance against Exeter is lock Isaac Sprenger, who could make his professional debut if called upon from the bench. Loose-head Ioan Emanuel has returned from a loan spell with Cardiff to start in the front row.

The timing of the signing carries an added dimension: Argentina XV face England A at The Rec — Camerlinckx’s new home ground — on the same evening as his arrival was confirmed.