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Todd Blackadder has extended his contract with Bath Rugby.

His original, three-year deal, was due to expire next summer but the former All Blacks captain will stay on to help develop the club’s long-term strategic plan.

Somerset Live understands Blackadder has signed a one-year extension, not a “long-term” deal as reported by Mail Online.

The club should be ready to announce how their future coaching structure will look soon.

As previously reported, rumours circulated on social media and in the national press last week that owner Bruce Craig was on the brink of sacking Blackadder, who arrived from Crusaders in the summer of 2016.

That was not the case; far from it. By that point the plan had long been to give him another year at least as the club looks to build stability.

When asked about the rumours after Bath beat Harlequins at the Stoop, Blackadder said: “I don’t know where they’re coming from and it’s absolute lies. Internally, it’s been really good.

(Image: Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

"This is all external stuff. We’re just cracking on with our work and ignoring that sort of stuff because it’s not true.

"It would be really interesting if someone actually stumped up the facts. If they believe it’s true, then prove it. Someone must know better than me."

The Blue, Black and Whites followed that win up with a 17-15 victory over Northampton Saints at a sodden Rec yesterday.

Bath finished 5th and 6th during Blackadder’s first two seasons in charge. They are currently fourth in the Premiership table after four rounds of action.

The 46-year-old replaced Mike Ford at Bath in 2016 and came with his right-hand man, Tabai Matson. The original succession plan was for Matson - who was head coach and attack coach on a four-year deal - to take over as DoR next season.

He returned to New Zealand only a year into his contract, citing family illness. Despite the ups and downs and never-ending injury lists, Blackadder has thoroughly enjoyed his time in charge and is clearly keen to help build a successful future.