Three more years for Mears

The talented hooker has established himself on the world stage during the course of the season, earning five England caps and plenty of plaudits in place of regular choice Steve Thompson.

Things have been less rosy at club level, although an exciting journey into the semi-final of the Heineken Cup provided necessary relief from a disappointing Premiership campaign.

"I am very happy to have signed on for another three years," the 27-year-old told www.stellargroup.co.uk.

"I have enjoyed this season, even though the team hasn't performed quite as well as we should have done. We have got a good squad of players at Bath, and expected to be challenging in the top half of the table.

"But on a personal level, it was fantastic to make my England debut, and to get a taste of the Six Nations has left me wanting more.

"As with Bath, it was slightly disappointing that we were not in the mix for the Six Nations, but it gives me even more incentive to put things right next season both for my club and country."

Mears has spent his entire rugby career at Bath, and the new contract could ensure he finishes his playing days at the Recreation Ground.

In the more immediate future, the combative front row is looking forward to extending his England prospects as he prepares to tour Australia in the summer.