World News
Beno Obano agrees to join French club Pau from Bath
The England loose-head prop will become ineligible for national selection under current RFU domestic eligibility rules once he moves at season's end.
The short version
- Bath loose-head prop Beno Obano has agreed to sign with French Top 14 side Pau after the current season concludes.
- The move will pause Obano's England career due to Rugby Football Union regulations limiting national selection to domestic-based players.
- Because Obano does not hold an RFU central contract, he remains eligible for the national squad during the current season and potentially for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Key facts
- Beno Obano agreed to transfer from Bath to French club Pau at the end of the upcoming season.[BBC News]
- The 31-year-old prop has made five test appearances for England, most recently against South Africa in July.[BBC News]
- Under agreements between Premiership clubs and the Rugby Football Union, head coach Steve Borthwick must generally select England squads from domestic clubs.[BBC News]
- Obano joins a roster of England internationals competing in France, including Jack Willis, Kyle Sinckler, Billy Vunipola, Manu Tuilagi, Lewis Ludlam, and Sam Simmonds.[BBC News]
- Obano's exit follows other front-row changes at Bath, including the departure of Thomas du Toit to the Sharks and the addition of Jamie Bhatti.[BBC News]
What remains uncertain
- Whether England coach Steve Borthwick will continue selecting Obano for international matches throughout the current season prior to his departure.[BBC News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Obano to put England career on hold with Pau moveBBC News - Top Stories