Michael Claassens leaves Bath

As expected and reported by Neil Fissler in The Rugby Paper weeks ago, Michael Claassens has today confirmed that he will be leaving Bath at the end of the season.
The 30 year-old scrum-half, who is poised to a move to French powerhouse Toulon this summer, has been with the West Country side for six years making over 160 appearances.
Claassens has been an ever-present on the Bath teamsheet in the last few seasons. Just 12 of his appearances in six seasons have been from the bench and he came close to beating the Aviva Premiership record for the most consecutive appearances in the league but for an untimely hamstring injury.
Talking of his decision, Claassens said: “This has been a very difficult decision for me to make, but one I feel is right. I have loved my time here at Bath – I originally came for two years and have ended up staying for six!
“I’ve worked with some fantastic coaches and players, and my wife and I have made many good friends since we moved over, but just feel it is the right time to make a change and have a new challenge.
“I’d like to thank everyone I have met in my time at Bath, including the supporters who have always been so fantastic to me, and I’m looking forward to doing all I can to help end this season on a good note.”
Bath head coach Gary Gold added: “Mikey has been a wonderful player for Bath. On and off the field he is the ultimate professional, and his good nature will be missed greatly.
“We completely respect his decision to move on though, and he goes with all our best wishes as he looks to continue his career elsewhere.”