MacGinty savouring Bristol return after long spell out

Bristol Bears fly-half AJ MacGinty has expressed his delight at returning to action following an extended injury layoff that sidelined him for most of last season. The 36-year-old started and played 58 minutes in Bristol's opening-round away victory against Sale Sharks. It was MacGinty's first start since rupturing his Achilles on the opening day of the previous season, after which he also suffered a calf setback.

MacGinty is currently managing lingering calf cramps with the goal of playing full 80-minute matches soon. Now in his fifth season with Bristol after signing an extension through this campaign, the USA international is aiming to represent his country at the 2027 World Cup in Australia. He also revealed ambitions to transition into coaching once his playing career concludes.