Bath snap up England ace

Moody set for shock switch from Leicester

Moody: Shock move

I am really looking forward to an exciting new challenge at this stage of my career

Lewis Moody
Quotes of the week

England flanker Lewis Moody is set to end his 14-year association with Leicester in the summer after he agreed a shock move to Bath.

Moody made his first-team debut at the Tigers in 1996 and has gone on to make 216 appearances but he has now agreed a three-year deal to move to Leicester's rivals at The Rec.

And the 31-year-old, who has also represented the British & Irish Lions, admitted he is relishing the chance for a fresh challenge.

"I am really looking forward to an exciting new challenge at this stage of my career," said Moody.

"Bath's values perfectly suit my own, it is a great City and Club, with a real family feel and a close knit and impressive squad.

"I have always known that if I was ever going to leave Leicester, the only club I would consider in the UK would be Bath. They play an exciting brand of rugby and having spent time with both Steve Meehan and Nick Blofeld I am sure that there are exciting years ahead."

Winner

Bath head coach Steve Meehan is pleased to have completed the transfer coup - claiming Moody will become a key asset.

"Lewis is a proven winner and he brings vast experience, a fierce determination and great attitude with him," said Meehan.

"Adapting to our style of play shouldn't be a problem and we expect him to help create more opportunities and momentum up front."

Despite seeing one of his star men leave, Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill has praised Moody's attitude during his time at the Tigers.

He said: "Lewis has been a big part of this club for a long time and he has won every major honour in his time here.

"Everyone knows about the enthusiasm he brings to his game, and that has not altered during his 14 years in the first-team squad, which says a lot for his attitude to the game of rugby.

"We wish him well as he takes up a new challenge for next season and I know he will receive a very warm welcome from our supporters whenever he returns.

"I'm sure he will be looking to go out on a high note and we look forward to his return to Leicester for the run-in to the end of this season after international duty at this season's Six Nations."