Bath captain Steve Borthwick is to leave the club at the end of the season to join Premiership rivals Saracens.
The 28-year-old England second row has been at The Rec for 10 years but says he wants a fresh challenge.
"After 10 years here I feel the time is right for a new challenge. A change in club provides that and I am excited about what the future holds," he said.
"My commitment for the rest of the season will continue to be of the highest standard," he added.
Bath head coach Steve Meehan is confident Borthwick's decision will not have a negative impact on the team, which is currently second in the Premiership.
"We need to concentrate on the rest of the season," Meehan told the club website.
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"Steve Borthwick has committed himself to still playing hard for the club until the end of the season.
"At the same time, we have had considerable wins on and off the pitch and that will continue.
"Over the coming months positive announcements will be made that will reassure fans that we will continue to move in the right direction."
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