Bath's Bok returning home

One-time Springbok Pieter Dixon will also be leaving Bath at the end of the season.

The Zimbabwean-born hooker joined Bath in 2005, following a long and successful career in South Africa - where he played in a midweek match for the Boks on the year-end tour in 2000 - as well as with the Stormers, for whom he made nearly 30 Super Rugby starts.

The 34-year-old Dixon has gone on to spend seven seasons with the West Country club, amassing 155 appearances for Bath.

A mobile and consistent hooker, Dixon also knows his way to the tryline, having scored six tries - including a very memorable one against Leicester in 2008 from 35 metres out.

Speaking about the decision Dixon said it has been a really "hard" decision to make to leave the club.

"The time has come for me to return home," the hooker said, adding: "I've had a fantastic seven years at this club, played with some great players, and worked with some very talented and knowledgeable people.

"I'd like to thank them all, as well as the Bath supporters who have made playing for the Club such a great experience."

Coach Brad Davis added: "We are sad to see Pieter go, but wish him all the best for the future.

"His contribution to Bath cannot be understated, and through his honesty, work ethic and desire to always improve he has represented all the values that we aspire to as individuals and as a club.

"His experience and enthusiasm will be missed both on and off the field, and he has been a brilliant character and player to have in the squad for the past seven seasons."