Welsh veteran Jamie Roberts signs with the Stormers

Wales international centre Jamie Roberts is to leave Bath with immediate effect to play the 2020 Super Rugby season with Siya Kolisi's Stormers.

Roberts, capped 94 times by Wales and with three Lions Test appearances, joined the English club from Harlequins in 2018 and has been granted early release from his contract.

The Stormers have recruited the 33-year-old to add experience to their rookie backline.

 

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As the sun sets on life @bathrugby , a quick message to thank the supporters. Representing the great City of Bath wearing Blue, Black and white has been an immense privilege. Some very fond memories that I’ll carry for a long time. An exciting super rugby season awaits in Cape Town playing for the @dhlstormers ....a once in a lifetime opportunity that I’m hugely excited for! South Africa has rugby at its heart (a bit like Wales!) and I can’t wait to get going. Cheers 👊🏼

A post shared by Jamie Roberts (@jamiehuwroberts) on Jan 16, 2020 at 12:08pm PST

"It has long been a goal of mine to play in the southern hemisphere," said Roberts, who is a qualified doctor.

"While I'm looking forward to wearing the shirt, my key drive is to perform on the pitch, win week in week out and to help to drive success.

"It will also be a fantastic opportunity for me to help impart some knowledge and insight on the many talented youngsters that we have here."

Roberts last played for Wales in November 2017 and was left out of new coach Wayne Pivac's squad for the upcoming Six Nations earlier this week.

Bath have signed Fiji centre Josh Matavesi from Newcastle to replace Roberts.