Bath sign South African fullback on short-term contract

Bath have confirmed that they have signed South African fullback Brendan Owen on a short-term contract with immediate effect.

Owen joins from Jersey Reds, whose financial collapse at the start of the season has led to many of their players seeking out new clubs across England and further afield.

The 6'3, 97kg Owen mainly plays at 15 but can cover other positions in the back line.

A statement reads: "Bath Rugby have signed former Jersey Reds fullback Brendan Owen on a short-term contract with immediate effect.

"The 27-year-old South African was a free agent after the Reds ceased trading in September.

"His previous clubs include Australian sides Western Force, Perth Spirit, San Dona in Italy, and Boland Cavaliers in South Africa."

The move comes after former England international Piers Francis left the Gallagher Premiership side to join Japanese side Kurita Water Gush Akishima Rugby Club.

The 33-year-old joined Bath in the summer of 2022 from Northampton Saints and will leave the Rec having made 20 appearances and scored 109 points. Francis earned the last of his nine England caps at the 2019 World Cup.