Hape joins London Irish

After signing a two-year deal with London Irish,England centre Shontayne Hape announced that he will leave the Bath at the end of the season.

After making quick progress in union which has seen him win a regular place in England's starting line-up had now signed contract with Irish.

In the Six Nations on Saturday,the 29-year-old is expected to play for England having earned eight previous international caps.

London Irish coach Toby Booth said: "He is physically very intimidating and his ability to offload out of the tackle will trouble any defence."

"We have a lot of young talent coming through the club and the experience that Shontayne brings will also help them to develop further."

Hape represented New Zealand at rugby league and spent six seasons with the Bradford Bulls before joining Bath in 2008 on a three-year deal.