Worcester's Best option?
January 26 2010
Neil Best is on his way to Worcester next season in a bid to get himself back in the running for a World Cup spot in 2011.
Best moved to Franklin's Gardens in 2008 from Ulster and was enjoying a resurgence in form after a dip at Ulster, but was then suspended for 18 weeks for gouging and has struggled to nail down his spot since, making it harder to add to his 18 international caps.
Best will now be up against Pat Sanderson for the openside spot at Sixways, no meagre competition.
He was selected in the Ireland A side in November and scored a try in the 48-19 win over Tonga, but has not played for Ireland since the World Cup in 2007.
"I'm delighted that Neil Best has decided to join Warriors next season," said Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock.
"He is a highly respected figure in British and Irish rugby and brings with him a wealth of experience at international level and no nonsense approach combined with intelligence and skill.
"Neil is just the sort of player we need in our squad and I know he will add leadership to our team and will always lead from the front.
"This is a great signing for Worcester Warriors and we look forward to welcoming him to Sixways."
Neil Best said he was excited about his move to Worcester and had been impressed by the ambition and plans for the future at Warriors.
"In terms of the city, Worcester has a real rugby feel to it, very much like Northampton, and the club is held in high esteem by the people who really want it to do well," he said.
"I met Mike Ruddock and, although I knew about him as a coach and his ethos, his passion and ambition for success can only rub off on you. Everyone is singing from the same hymn sheet and keen for success, that makes you want to play for the club.
"I will leave Northampton at the end of this season with very fond memories. I have lots of friends at the club and got on very well with the coaching staff. I'm a professional will do absolutely everything I can to make sure the club is now as successful as we can be this season.
"After that I have a new challenge at Worcester Warriors from next season and I'm looking forward to it."