CENTRE Jackson Willison will leave Worcester Warriors at the end of the season to join Aviva Premiership rivals Bath.

The New Zealander has made 36 appearances for Warriors since moving to the club from French side Grenoble in the summer of 2016.

Earlier this month the 29-year-old revealed he had received “overseas interest” but has agreed to make the switch to Bath.

Warriors director of rugby Alan Solomons said: “We’re disappointed to lose Jackson but as always in rugby, players have to make the decisions they feel are best for them.

“I’d like to thank him for his efforts during his two seasons at Sixways and wish him well moving forward.”

Willison said: “I’d like to thank everyone at Sixways for their support over the past two seasons. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the club and wish Warriors the best of luck in the years to come.”

Bath boss Todd Blackadder said Willison would fit in “really well with the culture” he was looking to build at the Somerset side.

“Jackson will be a really good addition to our squad,” he said “His work-rate is exceptional and he’s got a strong all-round skillset – be it in attack or defence, you know he’s going to deliver.

“I’ve no doubt he’ll fit in really well with the culture here, so we’re looking forward to him joining us next season." 

Willison added: “Whilst my immediate focus is with Worcester, and putting all my effort in for them until the end of the season, I’m really excited to be joining Bath.

“Having spoken with Todd and the other coaches, there’s a real ambition and passion at the club and it will be great to be part of that.

“The squad is world-class, and I’m looking forward to getting involved and learning new things from a talented bunch of players and coaches come pre-season.”