Signings for Bristol and Bath Rugby
Two players have extended their contracts - whilst there's a new addition to the Bears squad
It's been a busy day for the West Country's rugby teams - with both the Bristol Bears and Bath Rugby announcing new signings.
'One of the best players in Europe'
Starting with Bath, England flanker Sam Underhill has signed a two-year contract extension with the Gallagher Premiership club - meaning the 27-year-old will stay at the Rec until at least 2026.
Underhill has won 35 caps and started all of England's Guinness Six Nations games this season, joined Bath eight years ago.
He said: "I am really pleased to be staying here. Bath feels like home, and it is an incredibly special place to play.
"This group has loads of potential and I am excited to see where we can go."
Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan added: "Sam is world-class. He is one of the best players in Europe and is an exceptional openside flanker."
The Bristol signings
Over to Bristol, and there's been a new signing and a contract extension.
Now on the books is 'powerhouse' prop Lovejoy Chawatama.
He's joining the Bristol side as Director of Rugby Pat Lam continues to build an exciting and balanced squad for the 2024/25 season.
The experienced tighthead joined Harlequins from London Irish in 2023 following their suspension from the Gallagher Premiership, and has made more than 50 appearances for the Exiles.
He previously represented England Students and returns to the West Country having studied at University West of England.
Pat Lam said: “Lovejoy was one of the most consistent performers in the Premiership during his time with London Irish and his style of play and skills are well aligned to the way we want to play at the Bears.
“As we continue to build our young and exciting squad, it’s key to have established and experienced Premiership players in specialist positions.
“Lovejoy has shown his quality and durability at the tighthead position and he will be a valuable asset for the continued development of our exciting young Bristolian tighthead props George Kloska and Jimmy Halliwell.
Chawatama said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Bristol Bears for the 2024/25 season – it’s a fantastic club with rich history, passionate fans, and ambition.
“It feels like a full-circle moment for me, having spent four years at UWE Bristol as a student and amateur rugby player.
“It’s a place I have fond memories of. I’m excited to bring my family here and make more memories on and off the pitch.”
Meanwhile Argentinian back row Santiago Grondona's extended his contract with the side - despite the 14-cap Puma having yet made an appearance for the club after suffering a knee injury whilst on international duty.
He's expected to return to the game later this month.
Pat Lam added: “Santiago sustained an unfortunate injury during the World Cup warm-up fixtures, but has shown his professionalism and diligence throughout his rehab.
“He’s somebody who can operate across the back row and in the second row and, at 25 years old, is an experienced head on young shoulders who has played and performed at the very highest level.
“Santi has a point to prove and wants to repay the Bears for the faith that the club have shown in getting him back. He’s loving his time in Bristol with his brother Ben and eager to make an impact.
“When we consider the brand of rugby we are striving to play and the balance of youth and energy in next season’s squad, Santi brings further physicality, presence and genuine competition to our back row.”
Grondona said: “It has been a frustrating start to my time at Bristol with the knee injury sustained in the summer, but the club have been hugely supportive, and I must thank all the outstanding medical and athletic performance staff who have helped me on my road to recovery.
“Despite the injury, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Bears and can’t wait to get stuck in on my return to action.”