Exeter Chiefs sign lock Peter Short from Bath

Short started his career with Leicester in 1997

Exeter Chiefs have strengthened their squad for next season with the signing of lock Peter Short from Bath.

The 31-year-old has agreed a one-year deal with the Devon outfit after spending six years at the Rec.

During his time with Bath, Short made 145 appearances for the club, scoring four tries.

"Times change and I'm just ready to move on and I'm lucky enough to get the chance to play at another great club," he told BBC Radio Bristol.

"After talking to James Scaysbrook, who's having a real purple patch at the moment, and meeting [coach] Rob Baxter as well, who is a straight-talking guy and has a touch of the old school, it's something I wanted to be part of."

Short went on to reveal he was considering a switch to French side Stade Francais but the deal fell through: "I was linked with a move across the Paris," he said. "It was close but it didn't come off and it wasn't meant to be.

"With any luck we'll get to play them in the Challenge Cup so I can look forward to that."

Short was hampered by injury for much of last season, only making six appearances for Bath, one of which was against his new club at the Rec in April.

Exeter boss Baxter added: "He didn't play much last season, but we feel he can add something to the squad.

"He's the type of player I was looking to bring in to the front five.

"He's a bit bigger and sometimes that element of bulk is what you need in certain games and at certain times of the year."