Finn Russell, Scotland’s national team captain, delivered a world-class performance as he guided Bath Rugby to victory over Leicester Tigers in the 2025 Gallagher Premiership Final at Twickenham. The 23–21 triumph marked Bath’s first English Premiership title in 29 years and showcased Scottish rugby at its finest on one of the sport’s biggest club stages.
Finn Russell’s Key Moments in the Premiership Final
- Interception Spark: Russell’s 49th-minute interception and no-look pass to Max Ojomoh created the game-changing try—evoking memories of his iconic 2019 Calcutta Cup play.
- Composure Under Pressure: After being hit late by Dan Cole (who was yellow-carded), Russell slotted a crucial penalty, extending Bath’s lead to 23–14 with 10 minutes remaining.
- Total Impact: The fly-half finished with 13 points (3 penalties, 2 conversions), instrumental in sealing the win and completing Bath’s Premiership, Challenge Cup and Premiership Cup treble.
“It’s always sweeter with a medal round your neck,” Russell told reporters post-match. “We didn’t play our best, but we found a way to win.”
Russell will now join the British & Irish Lions ahead of their test against Argentina in Dublin, before departing for the 2025 Australia tour.
Scottish Talent Beyond the Premiership
Jamie Ritchie Helps Perpignan Avoid Relegation
Former Edinburgh Rugby captain Jamie Ritchie played a critical role as USA Perpignan secured Top 14 safety in France. Despite missing out on the Lions squad, Ritchie’s performances abroad signal his continued value to Scotland’s back row depth.
Ritchie has stated he gave everything to earn a Lions call-up and remains focused on improving his game at club and international level.
URC 2025 Final: Leinster Dominate as Scots Look Ahead
Meanwhile, Leinster captured the United Rugby Championship title with victory over the Bulls. For Scottish sides Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors, the challenge is clear: to match Irish consistency and push for silverware in the 2025–26 season.
What This Means for Scottish Rugby
- Global Class: Russell’s elite play proves Scottish players can lead in top-tier club rugby across Europe.
- Depth Abroad: Ritchie’s success in France encourages more Scots to test themselves in competitive leagues without closing the door on national team duties.
- Path to Progress: Scottish clubs must match the professionalism and physicality shown by their Irish and English counterparts to compete for European honours.
What’s Next?
- British & Irish Lions Tour 2025: Russell heads to Australia after facing Argentina at Aviva Stadium.
- Scotland’s Summer Tour: Players like Cam Redpath, Josh Bayliss, and Jamie Ritchie prepare for matches against New Zealand and Fiji.
- Club Rugby Season 2025–26: Edinburgh and Glasgow aim to close the gap on the Irish provinces in the URC and Champions Cup.
