Barkley signs new Bath deal

Bath's England international Olly Barkley has signed a new two-year contract with the Zurich Premiership leaders.

The 22-year-old has scored nine tries this season and tops the Premiership points scoring charts with 336 from 23 appearances.

Barkley, who featured for England against Wales in the RBS 6 Nations, told his club's website www.bathrugby.com: "I am pleased to be signing a new deal.

"I am convinced that I have made the right decision and have importantly made that decision based upon rugby reasons. That is the reason that is most important to me and that is why I have decided to put pen to paper on a new deal here.

"The whole blend here at Bath Rugby is right. We have the right coaching staff and medical staff and I think that the team spirit here amongst the guys is second to none and I believe that it is evident for all to see in our ability to close out tight games.

"I have to say that happiness is the main thing in life and that is why I am staying here."

Bath Rugby's chief executive Andrew Brownsword said: "It is especially gratifying to know that Olly joins a number of other players who want to fulfil their career aspirations with Bath Rugby.

"We are committed to ensuring that players are able to satisfy such ambitions to the highest level with Bath Rugby and take great pride in seeing them represent their respective international sides."

Director of rugby Jack Rowell added: "Olly's tremendous progress this season has given everyone associated with the club a great deal of pleasure.

"He grasped the opportunity of being first-choice number 10 in the absence of the World Cup players with both hands and we were therefore not surprised to see Olly receive his England call.

"For a young player, Olly has shown a great deal of maturity and once again it was not surprising to see him impress at international level."