Bath’s director of rugby Todd Blackadder has announced that he will part ways with the club at the end of the European season.

Blackadder joined Bath on a three-year-old from the Crusaders in 2016, but signed a one-year contract extension that would have kept him at the club until 2020.

The 47-year-old has been granted an early release from his obligations to allow him to join Toshiba Brave Lupus as head coach.

‘It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead the blue, black and white for the past three years and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved,’ said Blackadder of his time at Bath.

‘It might not be silverware but together we have built strong foundations and I leave knowing that the best is absolutely yet to come.

‘Bath is a very special club. I’d like to thank everyone, especially the players and all of the staff. I also want to thank our supporters, even in the wind, rain and biting cold they are all at the Rec cheering us on. Thank you.’

Photo: www.bathrugby.com