Having enjoyed an impressive debut season with Bath Rugby, carving his reputation as one of the best scrum halves in the Premiership, the club are delighted that he will be remaining with the west country team up to the 2010/11 season.

Speaking before the announcement at Bath Rugby's friendly against Llanelli Scarlets, Claassens explained his decision to stay: "I really enjoyed my first season here. It was great. Bath is a fantastic rugby city too.

"There is no other club in England that I would consider. I am very happy with the coaches and the team and I think Bath are really capable of going somewhere great."

Head coach Steve Meehan was very pleased that the South African will be remaining in Bath colours, confirming that he believes Claassens is of the right mould to take Bath towards more trophy winning success: "It is obviously terrific for the club that Michael has decided to stay, especially signing so early in the season," said Meehan.

"He is exactly the type of character and person that we want at Bath Rugby. Aside from his obvious playing abilities, he is the sort that I believe can really represent what Bath Rugby stands for."

Last season, Claassens started 29 matches for Bath and came off the bench three times, notching up five tries over the season. Talking about his technical abilities, skills and defence coach, Brad Davis, reiterated the value Claassens holds in the team: "He made a huge impact as soon as he arrived at Bath last year. He has good speed around the ruck. He is tough.

“He has all the characteristics that you would want in a scrum half and the renewal of his contract is a sign of the intent that Bath has to consolidate the progress that we gained last season."