Roberts to join Bath Rugby at the end of the season

Harlequins & Wales centre Jamie Roberts will join Bath next season after turning down a move to the Japanese Top League in order to keep his 2019 Rugby World Cup hopes alive.

Capped 94 times by Wales, Roberts featured in the 2009 and 2013 British & Irish Lions tours and will arrive in the West Country following three years with Harlequins.

The hugely experienced centre started his career with Cardiff RFC before joining Cardiff Blues in 2007. After making over 80 appearances for the Welsh outfit, Roberts spent two seasons with French Top 14 side Racing Metro.

Roberts said: “I’m really excited to have signed for Bath Rugby – it’s a Club with a great deal of ambition, which was crucial in making my decision to come here. There is no doubt that Bath can mix it with the best in both the (Aviva) Premiership and in Europe over the next few years, and I’m looking forward to being part of the journey.

Director of Rugby, Todd Blackadder said: “Jamie needs no introduction – he is a player with vast experience with two Lions tours and close to 100 caps for his country under his belt. We are delighted to bring someone of his quality to the Club, and I know will make an instant impact when he comes in this summer.

“He’s hugely respected both on and off the field, and it’s those qualities which makes this a really significant signing for the Club. Not only that, but he’s hugely ambitious and I believe that both Bath and Wales will reap the rewards from this move.”