Young Wales international Bailey Cutts has become the latest Welsh rugby talent to cross the Severn Bridge, leaving Cardiff's academy to join English giants Bath. The 18-year-old centre, previously regarded as one of Cardiff's promising prospects, revealed he was initially told to look elsewhere for a contract.
Initial Rejection Prompted Move
Cutts explained that Cardiff did not offer him a contract initially. "They told me to look elsewhere, so I did," he said. "It was tough because I thought I'd done everything right. Some of the boys I've been in the academy with got contracts, but I was told I wouldn't have one at this time."
When Bath and Gloucester came in with offers, Cardiff then offered a contract, but Cutts had already committed to Bath. "Cardiff are my home club, and I love the coaches and staff, so it's gutting to leave. But by the time they offered, I had given my word to Bath."
Bath's Impressive Set-Up
Cutts was impressed by Bath's facilities at Farleigh House and a meeting with head of rugby Johann van Graan. "The tour was amazing, and meeting Johann van Graan was a shock. He was welcoming and family-oriented. His philosophy is to focus on rugby but also enjoy time with family and teammates."
During his visit, Cutts trained with the senior backs and met stars like Finn Russell and Henry Arundell. "It was surreal. They welcomed me and shook my hand straight away."
Future Plans
Cutts will study sports performance and gain early experience with the University of Bath in BUCS Super Rugby, aiming to follow the path of Louie Hennessey, a former Cardiff player who broke into Bath's first team and earned a Wales cap. "I'll start pre-season with Bath and play most minutes with Bath Uni. If I progress well, I hope to get Premiership Cup games and maybe a Gallagher Prem debut."
He added, "I'm a home bird, but moving to Bath will get me out of my comfort zone. First, though, I'm focused on the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Georgia."
Wales U20s Ambitions
Cutts faces strong competition for a starting spot but is confident in his abilities. "I rate my defence and attack. I play freely, like to offload, and am explosive. Preparations have gone well, and we've focused on closing out games after leading against France and England."
