William James Stuart, born on July 12, 1996, is an English professional rugby union player who currently plays as a prop for Bath Rugby in Premiership Rugby. He began his rugby journey at Andover RFC in Hampshire and later played for Salisbury RFC in Wiltshire. Stuart attended Radley College in Oxfordshire for his education, following his time at Farleigh School.
Stuart joined the academy of Wasps, a professional rugby club, after completing his schooling. He gained valuable experience by going on loan to various teams, including Blackheath, Moseley, and Nottingham, competing in National League 1 and the RFU Championship. Stuart made his debut for Wasps on November 4, 2016, in a match against Sale Sharks.
In January 2019, it was announced that Stuart would be signing with Bath Rugby for the 2019-20 season. He joined the club to bolster their front row and contribute his considerable skills. Stuart's talent and potential were recognized early on, leading to his call-up to the England national squad.
At the junior level, Stuart represented England in the 2016 World Rugby Under 20 Championship. He played as a replacement in the final, where England emerged victorious over Ireland to become junior World champions. In January 2020, Stuart received his first call-up to the senior England squad for the 2020 Six Nations Championship. He made his senior debut on February 2, 2020, coming off the bench as a replacement for Kyle Sinckler in a match against France. Stuart also played in the final round of the tournament, helping England secure the championship by defeating Italy.
Stuart's international career continued to progress, and in November 2020, he earned his first start for England in the opening game of the Autumn Nations Cup against Georgia. He also made a substitute appearance in the final, where England triumphed over France in extra time to win the competition.
On November 19, 2022, Stuart made a significant impact by coming off the bench against New Zealand and scoring his first two senior international tries. The match ended in a 25-25 draw, with England recovering from a 17-3 halftime deficit. Stuart's performance made him the first England prop to score twice in a test match.
With his strong physique, skills in the set-piece and open play, and consistent performances, Stuart has become an integral part of both Bath Rugby and the England national team. He continues to make valuable contributions as a tighthead prop, showcasing his talent and potential at the highest levels of the game.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Stuart has been named in the squad for England.
KG(15/06/2023)
Career
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Bath Rugby Tighthead Prop |
2019 - present |
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England Tighthead Prop |
2020 - present |
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Blackheath RFC 1st Team Tighthead Prop |
2014 - 2016 |
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England U20's Tighthead Prop |
2016 - 2017 |
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Moseley RFC Tighthead Prop |
2016 - 2017 |
 |
Nottingham Rugby Tighthead Prop |
2017 - 2017 |
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Wasps Tighthead Prop |
2016 - 2019 |
