Any hopes former England number eight Nathan Hughes was on the verge of working his way back into being a regular part of Pat Lam's plans at Bristol Bears this season seem to have vanished following the news the big number eight has been sent out on loan to the Championship.
Hughes started at number eight against Exeter Chiefs on New Year's Day in his first Premiership start since September, with the official line from the club being he has been absent as a result of poor form in which time young Fitz Harding has established himself as a star in the side. In the background rumours of a fallout linger with the Fijian-born Hughes expected to leave Ashton Gate at the end of the season.
The 22-cap England international performed admirably, if unspectacularly, in the defeat to Exeter - doing the basics well. However, he was replaced in just the 45th minute of the 19-13 loss.
