Look where Banahan is moving to

The veteran will join English Premiership rivals Gloucester.

The 31-year-old, capped 16 times from 2009 to 2011, in which he scored four tries, began life as a forward – before being switched to the backs by then Bath coach Brian Ashton.

he has since become a proven try-scorer.

Banahan has made more than 250 appearances in all competitions for Bath since making his debut in 2006, scoring 56 tries in his 175 Premiership matches.  

"Matt has had a wonderful career at Bath and he will bring a huge amount of quality and experience to the young, exciting squad we are building in Gloucester," said Gloucester's Director of Rugby David Humphreys.

"His versatility and ability to play in a number of positions across the backline adds real depth to our squad and Matt's quality will complement the style of rugby Johan Ackermann has brought to the Club this season.

"I know how tough a decision it was for Matt to leave Bath but we're all looking forward to seeing him playing in Cherry and White next season."

Humphreys' Bath counterpart Todd Blackadder said Jersey-born Banahan had been a 'great servant' for the club and wished him well.

"We'll be really sad to see Matt leave at the end of the season, but we completely understand the decision he has made with his family and future in mind," said Blackadder.

"I'd like to thank him for all his efforts over the years – he's been a fantastic servant for Bath.

"Everyone at the Club wishes him well with the next chapter of his career and will welcome him back to the Rec when the time comes. I've no doubt he'll remain as committed as ever as we work to achieve our aims for the rest of the season.

"We're working hard to ensure we get the right balance in the squad, taking into account the various complexities of building the squad we want long-term, and we will make further announcements on recruitment when appropriate."