Finn Russell misses out for Bath again in key match despite Scotland selection

Russell has been struggling with a calf issue and has not featured for Bath since their victory over Newcastle on May 15. It had been hoped that the 33-year-old fly-half would be available for the visit of Exeter, but he does not feature in Johan van Graan’s squad for the tie on Saturday afternoon.

Earlier this week, Russell was selected in Scotland’s 36-man squad for the inaugural Nations Championships this summer and head coach Gregor Townsend had intimated that the playmaker had recovered from his injury issues.

A reason for Russell’s absence was not given by Bath - other than saying he is “unavailable for selection” alongside Jaco Coetzee, Tom Cowan, Harvey Cuckson, Sam Harris, Louie Hennessey, Will Muir, Guy Pepper and Will Stuart.

Argentina internationalist Santi Carreras will line up at No 10 in Russell’s absence and pairs up with captain Ben Spencer in the half-backs.

Scotland internationalist Josh Bayliss has been selected at flanker, while compatriot Cam Redpath offers centre cover from the bench.

Bath won the PREM last season and the winner of the match, which kicks off at 3pm, will take on either Northampton Saints or Leicester Tigers. They meet at Franklin's Gardens on Friday night.

Speaking last week, Van Graan gave the following update on Russell. "He's in a great place, but he's not perfect," the head coach said. "He'll have to get through the week, but let's see on Friday what the team is for the [Exeter] game."