Bath sign Luke Watson
June 14 2009
Bath have announced the signing of Western Province captain Luke Watson.
Back-row forward Watson, who has won ten caps for South Africa, will move to England after this year's Currie Cup competition.
He has agreed a two-year deal with Bath, who confirmed their swoop for him the day after he led Western Province against the British and Irish Lions at Newlands.
"Playing in the Cape for Western Province and the Stormers has been, and remains, a privilege," said Watson.
"We still have some unfinished business in this year's Currie Cup, and I will be giving my all to ensure a successful season for the team and the Newlands faithful.
"Joining Bath represents a new beginning and an opportunity to grow and experience the game in the top echelons of northern hemisphere rugby."
The capture of 25-year-old Watson is a welcome coup for Bath.
They have commanded headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent months after the departure of players like Matt Stevens, Michael Lipman and Alex Crockett, and Watson represents a quality addition to their squad.
"Luke Watson is a very talented rugby player and an experienced leader who is yet to reach his peak," said Bath Head Coach Steve Meehan.
"We are very happy to have him arriving at Bath, even though we may have to wait until November.
"We are certain he will have a huge impact.
"Our discussions have been very straightforward, and neither of us is in any doubt of the way Bath play their rugby and the responsibilities he will inherit."