Rhys Webb makes move to Premiership with immediate effect

Director of rugby Stuart Hooper confirmed that Webb, who left Top 14 giants Toulon last month, has come into the Bath set-up with immediate effect.

The French club agreed to release Webb after reacting angrily to the Welsh Rugby Union granting the playmaker special dispensation to become eligible for selection for the 2020 Six Nations.

Hooper said: “We’re very excited to be bringing in an international talent to join the group, and to add some depth and quality to our scrum-half position at such a critical time of the year, and also after losing Max Green last month.

“Obviously there will be some familiar faces for him here, and a signing of this calibre is something I know will be welcomed by the squad. I’m sure he’ll settle in quickly and I know he is looking for some game time as soon as possible.

“We’re looking forward to getting him in the Blue, Black and White and out in front of our supporters at The Rec.”

That deal was made possible by Toulon agreeing to release the 31-year-old from his contract, which was due to run until 2021.

This will be the second big signing in two days for Bath after they announced yesterday that Cameron Redpath joining from Sale Sharks.

They join the Bath set-up with immediate effect for the rest of the season, and may be available to play as soon as Bath’s highly-anticipated local derby fixture against South West rivals Bristol Bears on Sunday, March 1.