Watson among four signing new Bath deals

England international Anthony Watson is one of four Bath players to sign a new long-term contract with the Premiership club.

Watson joins Charlie Ewels, Nathan Catt and Elliott Stooke in committing his future to Bath, following in the footsteps of Taulupe Faletau, Semesa Rokoduguni, Zach Mercer and Beno Obano who recently signed new deals.

Director of rugby Todd Blackadder believes the renewals represent another step towards the team's aim of playing an exciting brand of rugby.

"We have not shied away from the fact that we want to play smart attacking rugby, while also developing our own unique style of play," he said. "We know we are not there yet.

"To re-sign such an exciting group of players is testament to their belief in our direction of travel and the environment we have created here at Bath.

"Anthony Watson, Charlie Ewels, Nathan Catt and Elliott Stooke all have fundamental roles to play in our future and we are delighted to have ensured they are a part of it."

On Watson, Blackadder added: "Ant is one of those rare players who is incredibly talented yet so hungry to learn and get better every day.

"His performances for Bath have earned him games at the very highest level with England and the Lions, and he is a role model to our players with his work ethic and commitment to the club."