In an effort to turn the tide following a woeful first half of the season, Bath have completed the signing of No. 8 Nathan Hughes on a short-term deal from Bristol Bears.
The England international—who was capped 22 times between November 2016 and March 2019—will move to The Rec for the next two months and provide cover during the upcoming Six Nations campaign.
Bath sit at the bottom of the Premiership and have won only one of their 12 league games so far this season, a plight that hasn't been helped by the absence of certain high-profile personnel.
Wales No. 8 Taulupe Faletau is one of those whose contributions have been curtailed by injury, with the three-time British and Irish Lion tourist also set to sit out the Six Nations.
Hughes, 30, has made four Premiership appearances this term but remains a valuable asset, as seen when he scored and was named player of the match in Hartpury's 31-31 Championship draw with London Scottish on Friday.
"We are delighted to secure Nathan's services - he is a destructive ball carrier and provides critical cover throughout the international window," said Bath head coach Neal Hatley in a statement.
"I have been fortunate enough to work with him at international level. His experience and attributes, both as a person and a player, mean we are all looking forward to seeing him perform and making an impact for the Blue, Black and Whites."
Where do you think Bath will finish in the Premiership this season? Let us know in the comments section.
As well as Faletau's enforced absences, Bath have also been forced to contend without back-rower Jaco Coetzee for much of the current campaign.
The Somerset outfit then suffered further disappointment when Scotland international Josh Bayliss was forced off during Saturday's 64-7 defeat at home to Leinster in the Champions Cup.
Fiji-born Hughes will have a chance at some much-needed minutes with a nearby rival, although he remains ineligible to face parent club Bristol when they face Bath in the Premiership on March 5.
Bears director of rugby Pat Lam said: “It’s important for Nate to get some regular quality game-time at this stage of the season to enable to get back to his best rugby. This is a great opportunity for him and one that suits all parties with our neighbours Bath short of back-row options at present.
“Although Nathan has missed out on selection in recent weeks, his attitude and commitment around the environment has been outstanding as he’s played his part in ensuring the team continues to grow and improve on and off the field. I will stay in close dialogue with him over the loan period as he could still play an important part in our season.”
The short-term switch also presents Hughes with a key opportunity to advertise his talents before his £500,000-per-year contract at Ashton Gate expires this summer.
Former Wasps star Hughes is yet to agree a new destination after he leaves Bristol, although Munster coach Johann van Graan—who will take over as Bath coach this summer—may well monitor his loan with interest.
