Trailfinders continue their spending spree with a double Wednesday signing

Ealing Trailfinders’ immense spending spree has had another eye-catching purchase with the signing of Bath’s Paul Grant for the 2019/20 season.

The No8 joined Bath in 2016 and has made 46 appearances for them in a three-year spell at the Recreation Ground.

Grant started his career with New Zealand provincial side Otago where he also captained them in a six-year period for his home town club.

The 31-year-old began his spell in Europe with French side Montpellier in 2013 before moving to Nottingham. He spent two years there and featured 44 times, meaning he already has plenty of experience in the Championship.

His time at Bath has seen him become a formidable force in the Premiership with his destructive ball-carrying, and he can also cover the second row as he stands at 6ft 4ins. 

On the international stage, Grant has also represented New Zealand on the sevens Circuit, playing nine times in the 2008/09 season.

Ealing director of rugby Ben Ward said: “We are delighted to have Paul on board for next season. He’s an outstanding player who has been performing at the highest level in the Premiership regularly for the last few years.

“As well as that he has also had experience in the Championship where he was a standout player in the league. He is a very good leader and I have no doubt that he will suit our style of play.”

Bath boss Todd Blackadder added: “Paul was one of my first signings here and it has been a real pleasure to have worked with him. 

“He has brought a lot to the environment both on the playing side and off the field and on behalf of everyone at Bath Rugby, we’d like to wish Paul and his family all the best for the future.

“We are fortunate to have a number of world-class options in the back row combined with the emergence of the likes of Josh Bayliss and Miles Reid, who will undoubtedly play a key role for the club over the next few years.”

Grant hasn't been Ealing's only Wednesday signing as the Londoners also confirmed the arrival of Shane Buckley from Nottingham a day after announcing the signatures of Wasps' Craig Hampson and Exeter's Paul Davis.