All Blacks scrumhalf bolsters Bristols ranks
Mathewson has four caps for New Zealand, joins Mark Tainton’s squad until the end of the 2016/17 campaign.
The 31-year-old has spent nine years in Super Rugby, representing the Hurricanes, Blues and – most recently – Western Force.
"Alby has vast experience – over 130 Super Rugby caps – so we’re looking forward to welcoming him into our environment," Head coach Mark Tainton told bristolrugby.co.uk.
"He’s a good communicator and has performed consistently at the highest level during his career. It’s a crucial period in the Premiership for Bristol Rugby and we believe Alby’s introduction will sharpen our performances at the business end of the campaign,"
Mathewson joins Will Cliff, Rhodri Williams, Martin Roberts and Academy product Andy Uren as Bristol’s scrumhalf options.
He added: "It’s an exciting prospect to play in the Premiership and to represent Bristol – a team that is clearly on the up and playing with confidence.
"There’s a solid plan and structure in place here. Bristol know where they need to be and what they need to do to stay up. Everybody has bought into that culture and I’m fully committed to playing my part in helping the club achieve their goals this season,"
