NEW ZEALAND rugby league star Henry Paul has been signed by double champions Bath. The Wigan star has agreed a four month contract worth an estimated £2,000 a game.

Paul, who will be available from September to January, could make his Bath debut against Wasps at the Recreation Ground on September 14th.

Utility back Paul, a rugby league international, revealed that Bath had beaten first division rivals Harlequins for his signature and said he was looking forward to spearheading the club's bid for European Cup success.

"I've joined Bath because they are the best, it is as simple as that," he said.

"Rugby union represents a major challenge for me, which is something I thrive on, and I feel the move will be of great benefit. Whether I play union on a permanent basis, though, is something for the future."

In addition to Paul, Bath have signed American Eagles skipper Dan Lyle and Transvaal Under 21 captain Ruan Nel.

The new recruits are bolstered by former Wales and British Lions flanker Richard Webster and a third back row forward in Bridgend's Wales Under 21 international Nathan Thomas.

In announcing his squad, rugby director John Hall claimed that Bath have the finest squad of players in England.

"We've won 16 of the 22 major trophies available since 1984, but we dwell on the ones we didn't win," Hall admitted.