Scotland International Simon Taylor will join Bath Rugby on a three-year deal at the start of the 2010-11 season.
Versatile Scot to cross channel for Guinness Premiership side
British and Irish Lion Simon Taylor will join Bath on a three-year deal at the start of the 2010-11 season.
Taylor, a versatile back row, makes the move across the Channel from Top 14 team Stade Francais, where he has played since 2007.
The 30-year-old earned his first Scotland cap in the November 2000 Test against the USA before making a try-scoring debut for the British and Irish Lions in their 116-10 rout of Western Australia in 2001.
Debut
Taylor, who has 68 international caps to his name, is looking forward to making his first Guinness Premiership appearance.
"I am very excited to be heading to Bath," said Taylor.
"Bath has a fantastic squad with a great style of play. I think that they have real vision for the future and I want to be a part of that.
"It will also be the first time that I have played in the Guinness Premiership which is something I am looking forward to. Having played in the Magners League and Top 14, the new challenge that another competition brings will be great."
Bath head coach Steve Meehan expects Taylor to give his side's pack a significant boost.
Dynamic
"Simon is a dynamic, skilful player," said Meehan.
"Everyone knows him as a back row but he has already made it clear that he is not adverse to playing lock, which is an extra bonus for the squad.
"After having a number of conversations with him, he really struck me as a very thoughtful player. He listens, takes things on board and surveys what's around him before acting.
"We think he will fit in will here at Bath, as his vision and ethos clearly matches our own and I am sure he will make a great addition to the squad."
