Rugby Union

Forces Rugby Duo Aiming To Change Bath's Fortunes

Two of the best military rugby union players are hoping to turn Bath's fortunes around in the 2021/22 season.

The RAF's Josh McNally and the Army's Semesa Rokoduguni are two of the team's players hoping to end a run of seven consecutive competitive defeats.

The pair have also represented England as well as their services in the big Inter Services fixtures.

Rokoduguni played the full 80 minutes as Bath suffered their latest loss against Newcastle on Saturday.

He's had 10 years at the club but, according to McNally, the Army lance corporal is looking better than ever.

"Some of the moments we've had in training have been unbelievable," said the RAF player.

"Genuinely, tries have been scored that would win 'try of the year'."

Watch: Army star Lewis Bean discusses life in professional rugby.

Bath's poor form is something that can only be changed by better performances, which is what they are focusing on, says the former London Irish star.

McNally says it's now "about building the performances".

"Reflecting on the last couple of years, we've come off the pitch – forwards are absolutely battered and the backs have barely seen the ball.

"We're getting the ball more in these guys' hands. It's very exciting to watch."

Both men have been capped at international level with Rokoduguni's debut coming against New Zealand in 2014.

Despite Fijian heritage, he made the decision to represent England.

"I phoned up my dad and they were surprised that I got the call-up," he said.

"The rest of the village were like: 'Why you play for England? Why? You should be playing for Fiji'."

On opting to play for England, the Army star said: "It was one of my greatest memories in rugby."

Both men are looking forward to the return of Inter Services competitions and the Army man expects it to be an exciting race to reign supreme at service level.

"I think with the competition level, the next game will be up there," said Rokoduguni.

"Most of the boys are playing professional level right now.

"I'm so looking forward to it. It's going to be exciting."

You can hear the full interview from Josh McNally and Semesa Rokoduguni on the new Forces Sport podcast which is available on all podcast outlets from 16:30 UK time every Monday.