University of Bath sporting scholar Aiden Ainsworth-Cave makes PREM Rugby debut for table-topping Northampton Saints

Sporting scholar Aiden Ainsworth-Cave became the 30th University of Bath student to progress from BUCS Super Rugby to PREM Rugby when he made his debut for Northampton Saints.

The Economics student, supported by a Hudson Powell Scholarship, came on in the 11th minute as Saints beat Newcastle 28-27 at Franklin’s Gardens to maintain their lead at the top of the table.

It continues a stellar season for the flanker, who played all five matches for England during the 2026 U20 Men’s Six Nations and helped the University of Bath men’s 1st XV win the BUCS Super Rugby league title for a first time.

Students who have represented Bath in BUCS Super Rugby during the past 10 years have now gone on to play for six clubs in PREM Rugby, demonstrating the programme’s impact in developing players to compete at the highest level.

Bath Rugby: Darren Atkins, Will Butt, Arthur Cordwell, Tom Carr-Smith, Tom Cowan, Rhys Davies, Levi Davis, Josh Dingley, Tom Doughty, Austin Emens, Archie Griffin, Sam Harris, Louie Hennessey, Will Jeanes, Scott Kirk, Tyler Offiah, Max Ojomoh, Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi, Miles Reid, Vilikesa ‘Billy’ Sela, Ethan Staddon, Kepu Tuipulotu, Kieran Verden, Jack Woods, George Worboys.
Gloucester Rugby: Will Flinn.
Harlequins: Jack Kenningham.
Northampton Saints: Aiden Ainsworth-Cave.
Saracens: James Hadfield.
Worcester: Beck Cutting.

(Information correct as of March 2026).

Picture credit: Claire Jones/RedHatPhoto.co.uk