Exile Catt takes pot-shot at Bath supremo

Mike Catt yesterday prepared to call time on 11 years of outstanding service for Bath by taking a swipe at owner Andrew Brownsword.

England's World Cupwinning back has agreed a one-year contract with London Irish for next season.

Bath made Catt an offer he could refuse to stay at The Rec, so - despite interest from Japan - he has accepted a lucrative package to join the Exiles and maintain his international prospects.

Catt, 32, said: ' He (Brownsword) offered me a purely business deal and we couldn't come to terms. That's what he thinks he needs for next year, for the figures to add up.

'That's professionalism, but I'm still pretty old school, so it's hard to stomach.

'I've still got so much to offer. Rather than talking about figures I'd rather talk about rugby. But he's got a business to run and that's his decision.

'I've made the right choice. Irish have a good side and everyone I've spoken to has said it's somewhere I would fit in.'

While one England veteran prepared for a new start, another has decided to call it a day.

Harlequins' England prop Jason Leonard, 35, who won a world record 114 caps, will quit at the end of this season.