Hape has signed a three-year deal with Bath

Bath centre Shontayne Hape hopes to hit the ground running after his switch from rugby league side Bradford Bulls.

The New Zealander, 26, has arrived at the Recreation Ground for pre-season training, rather than wait for the end of the rugby league season in October.

"I am settling in and learning the rules," he told the club's website.

And Hape says close friend Lesley Vainikolo influenced his move: "Once he made the move, I talked to him and was able to see the opportunities he got."

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The latter's switch proved unsuccessful and he has since returned to rugby league with Hull KR.

"I played a little bit of union at school," Hape added. "I always enjoyed the sport but I went in another direction and played league.

"I did not want to get to the age of 32 and regret that I did not move earlier. I still see myself as young enough to make an impact in union."

Hape won Super League and World Club Championships titles with Bradford and won the Tri-Nations series title in 2005 with New Zealand.

"I am grateful that Bath showed faith in me, brought me down here and have given me an opportunity to repay their faith.

"Ultimately it was down to me and what I wanted to achieve," he added. "I felt that I was too comfortable where I was and I wanted a new challenge."