League star joins Bath

Bradford Bulls star Shontayne Hape is set to switch codes and join rugby union side Bath on a three-year deal.

The 26-year-old joined the Bulls in 2003 from the New Zealand Warriors and has made over 130 appearances for the West Yorkshire outfit. But his time at the Grattan Stadium will come to an end on June 30, when he moves to the Recreation Ground for an undisclosed fee.

With England international Olly Barkley leaving Bath for West Country rivals Gloucester this summer, the European Challenge Cup winners wasted little time in lining up a replacement and it appears likely that Hape will play in the centre.

The New Zealand international feels the time is right to try his hand at the 15-man code after an illustrious career in Super League.

"It was a very difficult decision to make," he said. "The Bulls have done so much for me.

"The main reason was the opportunities rugby union can offer, but I also feel I need a new challenge. The best thing for me and my family is to move on."

Hape qualifies for England on residency grounds and may well be fast-tracked into the national set-up under new manager Martin Johnson.

Bulls coach Steve McNamara paid tribute to the player and wished him well in his new venture.

"Shontayne is a fantastic player and he has been a great servant," he said. "He will be a big loss to us, but I fully understand his position.

"Everyone has big decisions to make at certain stages of their careers and Shontayne is at a crossroads and has decided to follow a certain path.

"He goes with our blessing. He has put his heart and soul into Bradford Bulls and we would not stand in the way of this opportunity. I wish him every success in the future."