The former Crusaders star Robbie Fruean will head to Britain next month to play for Bath.
Hawkes Bays' Robbie Fruean celebrates his try. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Bath have confirmed the signing of the 28 year old versatile centre who will arrive following Fruean's involvement with Hawke's bay in the Mitre 10 Cup.
Wellington-born Fruean can also play on the wing and has represented the Chiefs and the Hurricanes in Super Rugby.
Early in his career Fruean underwent open-heart surgery for rheumatic fever, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the heart.
Commenting on the move, Fruean said: "Whilst my focus for the time being is still on the Mitre 10 Cup with Hawke's Bay, I'm really looking forward to getting over to Bath and getting started.
"It will be a new challenge for me - the Premiership is such a tough league, but Bath have had a good start, and I know that being over there and competing in it will bring out the best in me."
In 2007 he represented New Zealand in the U19 Rugby World Championship, and was named the IRB World U19 Player of the Year. A dynamic, impactful player, he is renowned for bringing both speed and power to the pitch.
"We are really excited that Robbie has agreed to join us here at Bath," said Todd Blackadder, the Club's director of rugby.
"Tabai and I know him very well from his time at the Crusaders, and he is the kind of player we know will fit right in with the squad we have here, both on and off the field."
