Alby Mathewson signs for Bristol from Western Force

New Zealand scrum-half Alby Mathewson has joined Bristol on a deal to the end of the season.

Mathewson, capped four times by the All Blacks, has spent the last four years in Super Rugby with the Western Force and joins the Aviva Premiership side with immediate effect.

The 31-year-old also had spells with the Wellington Hurricanes and Auckland Blues.

"Alby has vast experience - over 130 Super Rugby caps- so we're looking forward to welcoming him into our environment," head coach Mark Tainton said.

"He's a good communicator and has performed consistently at the highest level during his career. It's a crucial period in the Aviva Premiership for Bristol Rugby and we believe Alby's introduction will sharpen our performances at the business end of the campaign."

Mathewson added: "It's an exciting prospect to play in the Aviva Premiership and to represent Bristol - a team that is clearly on the up and playing with confidence.

"There's a solid plan and structure in place here. Bristol know where they need to be and what they need to do to stay up. Everybody has bought into that culture and I'm fully committed to playing my part in helping the Club achieve their goals this season."