Tait set for Bayonne summer switch

French club Bayonne have announced the signings of England-capped back Mathew Tait on a two-year contract and All Black Tom Taylor, who has agreed a three-year deal.

Tait, whose decision to move to France was revealed in January, makes the switch this summer after four years at Leicester. The 29-year-old former Sale and Newcastle player has represented England 38 times, with his last appearance coming in 2010.

Taylor, who like Tait can play in several positions in the backs, has won three caps with New Zealand and has been playing for the Crusaders in Super Rugby. The 25-year-old, whose father Warwick and uncle Murray played for the All Blacks in the 1980s, will join Bayonne on November 1.

A statement on www.abrugby.fr read: "The back or winger of Leicester Tigers' Mathew Tait has committed to two seasons with Bayonne. The former England international played in the 2007 World Cup final against South Africa. At 21, he was the youngest English player to start a World Cup final.

"Currently playing with the province of Canterbury and the Crusaders, New Zealand fly-half or centre Tom Taylor, meanwhile, joins Bayonne for three seasons."