Bath confirm signing of Danny Cipriani

Bath Rugby have announced the signing of England international Danny Cipriani on an extended one-year contract that includes the completion of the 2020/21 season.

Cipriani left Gloucester in December last year and now is set to join fourth Premiership club in his professional career with Rhys Priestland leaving for the Cardiff Blues at the end of the season.

“I’ve been really focused over the past three months on improving my running efficiency and kicking, while looking for a club that matches my ambition. After speaking with Stuart and Neal, it was clear that Bath offered that opportunity," he told the club's official website.

“We talked about what I could bring to the club and what Bath were looking for in a fly-half; someone who could be part of an attacking mindset, who could help unlock that aspect of the game and inject additional pace and vision - complementing the quality in the team.

“The club has a clear ambition and drive that aligns with my own; they want to achieve something special as a team, they want to win. That was a very appealing vision for me.”

The 33-year-old started his professional rugby career with Wasps in 2006 and made a switch to Sale Sharks ahead of the 2012/13 season before heading back to Ricoh Arena for his second stint in 2016. He joined the Cherry and Whites in 2018 and helped them reach the semi-final of the Premiership in the 2018/19 season.

Overall, he has played 216 Premiership games for three clubs combined. He has also played 16 Tests for England between 2008 and 2018.

Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper is confident that Cipriani's addition will add more depth to the squad.

“Danny’s abilities are evident; his game understanding and management are exceptional as is his skillset in the backline. He has a real eye for detail around the attacking shape, I’m confident that he will bring an exciting dimension to our game.

“We have made no secret of our recruitment in this key position. Our process, as with all recruitment and contracting decisions, has been thorough and diligent and we are now incredibly excited to be able to announce the recruitment of Danny.

“I have no doubt that Danny will become a valued member of our playing group and become an ambassador to the younger players coming through the pathway just as Rhys has so well over the seasons.”

Bath are positioned seventh in the Gallagher Premiership table with seven wins from 14 games.