Nathan Hughes off to Bath

Nathan Hughes has fallen out of favor with Bristol Bears boss Pat Lam and has recently had a short loan stint in the RFU Championship playing just one game for Hartpury University RFC and scoring a try in their 31 all draw. Today Bath announced that he will be joining them on a loan deal with immediate effect.

The 130kg number 8 has 20 test appearances for England and 120 Wasps caps. He joined Bears in 2019 but has struggled to cement himeself in the starting line up.

Bears director of rugby Pat Lam insists that the door remains open for Hughes, with Bristol holding a recall clause in the event of any injuries of their own in the back row, and that his attitude has been "outstanding". He will not be eligible to face the Bears in the derby fixture at the Rec on March 5.

Pat Lam: "Although Nathan has missed out selection in recent weeks, his attitude and commitment around the environment has been outstanding and he's played a part in ensuring the team continues to grow and improve on and off the field."