Beno Obano, the 31-year-old loose-head prop, is set to leave Bath for Pau in France's Top 14 at the end of this season, putting his England Test career on hold. This move follows his fifth cap earned during a defeat against South Africa in July, where he supported first-choice Ellis Genge.

England's head coach Steve Borthwick faces limitations regarding player selection from domestic clubs, impacting Obano's chances. The loose-head position is particularly competitive, with younger talents like Fin Baxter from Harlequins, Emmanuel Iyogun from Northampton, and Bevan Rodd from Sale vying for spots. Additionally, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, a versatile 22-year-old, can also play in that front-row position.

While it seems unlikely that England will exclude Obano from selection this season—unlike the case with Tom Willis, who was dropped after announcing his move to Bordeaux-Begles—his status remains uncertain. Willis, despite impressive performances in the 2025 Six Nations and a central contract, was overlooked for players committed to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Obano, not currently on a central contract, will still be eligible for the upcoming tournament, joining fellow English players like David Ribbans and Joe Marchant, who have also secured moves to France.

His exit adds to the front-row reshuffle at Bath, following the departure of Thomas du Toit to the Sharks and the arrival of Scotland's Jamie Bhatti this summer. This transition marks a significant change for Bath's squad dynamics.