England centre Shontayne Hape has played his last game for Bath Rugby, the club has announced.

Although there are three games remaining in the Aviva Premiership campaign, Hape will be forced to sit them out in order to undergo minor surgery on his knee.

The former New Zealand international is due to move to London Irish at the end of the campaign after three years of service.

"Hopefully the team can continue on from the win last weekend and make the play-offs,” he told the club’s website.

"I have had a great time here at Bath and am so thankful for the help everyone here has given me in making the transition to union, and in fulfilling my international ambitions.

"It has been a very enjoyable three years and whilst I am excited about the new challenges awaiting me, I will be sad to leave the guys here."

Hape is expected to be fit for the World Cup in the autumn.