Thomas commits to Bath

Technically excellent and a constant threat in the loose, Thomas has played 60 games across all competitions for the West Country side, and brings a real physical presence to the scrum set-piece and open play. Despite suffering a season-ending injury in November, the 25-year-old looks set to continue his rise as one of the best prop forwards in English rugby when he is back on the pitch.

Thomas said: "I am so pleased to have extended my contract with Bath – it’s my home club, and I know it’s the best place to continue my development as a player. We’re incredibly ambitious, have a great group of players and coaches, and it’s very much a club I want to be part of going forward.

"Personally, I am concentrating on my rehab at the moment, which is going really well and everyone is very pleased with the progress being made. I’m focused on making sure I’m in the best possible condition to get back out there with the boys next season, and doing all I can to help off the field in the meantime as we push on this year,"

The prop started his rugby journey playing for Bath Minis at the age of six before eventually going on to sign professional terms with Sale Sharks in the 2010/11 season. Thomas won seven caps with England during his spell with the Manchester-based club, before returning home to the West Country to sign a three-year deal with Bath ahead of the 2014/15 season.

Director of Rugby, Todd Blackadder, added: "Henry is a very talented player, so we’re all thrilled he’s re-signed with the club. He has a tremendous skill set and work ethic, and we can’t wait to see him back out on the field doing what he does best when he’s ready.

"Retaining a large proportion of the squad is crucial to a cohesive team unit going forward, so that is a key focus for us. It will undoubtedly reap its rewards over what we believe will be a successful few years for the club,"