New beginning.

Wales and British and Irish Lions centre Jamie Roberts has left Bath and signed for the Stormers ahead of the 2020 Super Rugby season.

The seasoned midfielder has joined the South African side through the financial support of a corporate partner, with Bath signing Fijian international Josh Matavesi as his replacement.

Roberts said that he cannot wait to get stuck in and make a contribution both as a player and mentor to the younger players in the Stormers group.

“It has long been a goal of mine to play in the Southern Hemisphere and I cannot think of a better place to do so than in the Western Cape, where people are so passionate about their rugby and also staying in Cape Town which is such an amazing city,” Roberts said.

“While I am looking forward to wearing the shirt, my key drive is to perform on the pitch, win week in week out and to help to drive success.

“Having toured South Africa with my school, Sevens, club and Wales National Team, then playing in the 2009 British and Irish Lions series as a young player which was a highlight in my career, to spend some time down here and contribute to the fantastic rugby culture will be a special privilege.

“Every time I have been to South Africa, it has always struck me as a beautiful country with rugby at its heart, which reminds me very much of home. It feels very special to be able to come and play rugby in South Africa.

“While I am looking forward to pulling the DHL Stormers jersey on, this will also be a fantastic opportunity for me to help impart some knowledge and insight on the many talented youngsters that we have here.”

DHL Stormers Head Coach John Dobson said that having a player of Roberts’ proven class and ability will be a significant boost to the squad and to its dream to make Cape Town smile.

“Jamie’s record and reputation speaks for itself, but I am particularly excited to see the impact that he will have on the likes of talented players such as Damian Willemse, Dan du Plessis, Rikus Pretorius and Lyle Hendricks who will be able to soak up so much from playing alongside him.

“He is renowned around the world for his professionalism and we are all looking forward to the impact he will have here.”