Bath Rugby Players Josh Bayliss and Kieran Verden Build Land Rover Restoration Business

Bath Rugby flanker Josh Bayliss and prop Kieran Verden are leveraging their passion for Land Rovers to build a restoration business, Over & Under, as a contingency for life beyond professional rugby, according to multiple sources. The duo, who have worked on over 25 restoration projects since 2023, view the venture as both a creative outlet and a strategic career backup.

How Did Their Business Begin?

Bayliss and Verden’s collaboration started in late 2023 when Bayliss invited Verden to his workshop to assess a Land Rover. The pair quickly discovered a shared enthusiasm for automotive restoration, leading to the formalization of Over & Under. “We first worked together on the old Land Rover Classic and realized we worked really well together,” Verden told *Rugby World*. The business has since grown organically through word-of-mouth, with clients including fellow Bath Rugby players and local Land Rover enthusiasts.

What Makes Their Business Unique?

Unlike many athletes’ side hustles, Bayliss and Verden’s venture is deeply rooted in personal interest. Bayliss, who restored his first Land Rover Defender as a teenager, described the process as “a passion ever since.” Verden, influenced by his mechanic brother, began tinkering with cars at a young age. Their workshop, located near Trowbridge, now features two car ramps, specialized tools, and a small kitchen, reflecting their dedication to the craft.

Why Do They See It as a Career Backup?

Both players emphasize the importance of preparing for life after rugby. Verden, 27, noted that injuries and career uncertainty are inevitable in professional sports. “You have to be prepared for all eventualities,” he said, citing support from the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA). Bayliss, 28, added that the business allows him to “pour energy into something beyond rugby,” with the long-term goal of making it a full-time endeavor.

How Does Their Work Impact Their Rugby Performance?

The pair argue that their restoration work complements their rugby careers by offering a mental escape. “It’s a great escape from rugby,” Verden said. “We go to training, get our work done, then we can be down here and get away from rugby.” Bayliss echoed this, noting that troubleshooting mechanical issues helps him develop problem-solving skills applicable on the field.

What Are Their Future Plans?

Over & Under’s next projects include restoring two Defender TD5s and a 300 Tdi, with plans to expand the business by hiring additional staff. Verden expressed interest in “putting an M57 BMW engine into a Defender,” while Bayliss mentioned a “BMW e30 restoration” as a potential dream build. The duo also aims to collaborate with Land Rover parts experts like Exmoor Trim, a relationship that has already opened new opportunities.

How Does This Compare to Other Athletes’ Ventures?

While many rugby players pursue side businesses, Bayliss and Verden’s focus on niche restoration sets them apart. Unlike coffee shops or wellness centers, their work combines technical expertise with a deep cultural connection to Land Rovers, a vehicle emblematic of British automotive heritage. This specialization has allowed them to attract a loyal client base, including teammates like Ben Spencer, whose converted Defender serves as a mobile coffee shop.

What Challenges Do They Face?

Balancing rugby and business remains a challenge. Bayliss joked about “getting busier and busier,” with requests from academy players and fellow professionals. However, both stress that the venture is driven by passion rather than obligation. “We enjoy this, it’s our passion,” Verden said. “But it’s also putting us in a good position for later life.”

What Does the Future Hold?

As Bath Rugby continues its resurgence under head coach Johann van Graan, Bayliss and Verden’s dual careers highlight the evolving paths of modern athletes. Their business, rooted in practicality and personal interest, offers a blueprint for sustainable post-sports careers. For now, they remain focused on both the pitch and the workshop, proving that rugby players can thrive beyond the field.