Peter Stringer: Sale Sharks sign Bath's former Ireland scrum-half

Peter Stringer has played for Bath, Newcastle and Saracens in the Premiership

Sale Sharks have signed former Ireland scrum-half Peter Stringer for next season on a one-year deal following his release by Bath.

The 37-year-old moved to The Rec on loan from Munster in January 2013 before making the move permanent.

Capped 98 times by Ireland, Cork-born Stringer has found playing time limited this season, featuring just 12 times for Bath and scoring one try.

"He's a top-class player," Sale boss Steve Diamond told BBC Sport.

"He was first choice for Bath, but they're going for a younger scrum-half.

"He doesn't want to come as a mentor, he wants to come to push Chris Cusiter for the place."

Sale have also announced Italy prop Alberto di Marchi, who joined last summer on a two-year deal, is leaving the club by mutual agreement.