Mat Gilbert: Bath flanker to leave Premiership club

Gilbert scored three tries for Bath in 19 first-team appearances

Flanker Mat Gilbert is to leave Bath to gain more match time, the Premiership club have confirmed.

The 28-year-old moved to the Rec in November 2012 after spells at Scarlets and Mogliano in Italy.

He has made 19 appearances for the West Country club, scoring three tries, and has has also won 11 caps for the England Deaf rugby team.

"I'm sad to be leaving Bath, but I need more game time to keep on improving as a player," said Gilbert.

"It's been a thoroughly enjoyable two years. I've worked with some great coaches and played alongside some great players. I know they'll go on to achieve their aims."

Head coach Mike Ford added: "Mat's a recognised talent in the game, so it's unfortunate for him that he's competing for a playing spot with some other very talented players here at Bath.

"I know he'll go on to continue to succeed in the game, and we wish him the best of luck in the future."