Premiership Cup final 'massive' for Bath - Richards

Ewan Richards signed a new two-year contract at Bath in February

Bath lock Ewan Richards says Sunday's Premiership Rugby Cup final against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park is "massive" for the squad's younger players.

The 22-year-old, who signed a new contract until 2027 last month, has captained the side throughout the club's Premiership Cup campaign and stressed the importance of ending a run of 17 years without a trophy.

"This cup run has been pretty special for the wider group," Richards told BBC Radio Bristol.

"We've seen 49 lads play in this competition this year which is unbelievable; it just shows the depth that we've got in this squad and we know the aim is bigger.

"We want to win the league this year but this opportunity this weekend for some of us younger lads is massive.

"We get the opportunity to express ourselves and bring some silverware back to the club."

Bath assistant coach Andy Robinson admitted he had used the competition to develop the squad from the outset but, now the Blue, Black and Whites have reached the final, the former England coach is fully focused on winning at all costs.

"There's a real expectation amongst everyone, but it's a real belief in what we do," he added.

"It's the first final we're in, we have the opportunity of being in three finals this year but you talk about trophies when you've won them.

"We know what Exeter are about and at Sandy Park, they're a very tough team to beat."

Veteran wing/full-back Ruaridh McConnochie, now in his seventh season with the club, said he is enjoying some of his best rugby in the twilight of his career.

"I've massively enjoyed it, being that older head in the team," the 33-year-old said.

"I think the first game I played in, I was 15 years older than the youngest player in the team but I've loved it - its been cool to watch some of these guys develop from the first game away at Ampthill to now stepping into a final this Sunday.

"I don't take anything for granted. I know I'm at an age where I'm in the last year or so of my career and I'm really enjoying being out there on the pitch."