Bill Mata the latest player to put pen to paper at Bristol

Fiji No.8 Bill Mata has become the latest player to sign a new deal at Bristol Bears.

The 34-year-old arrived at Ashton Gate from Edinburgh two seasons ago, and has gone on to make 28 appearances for Pat Lam’s side.

The 38-cap Fiji international follows in the footsteps of Louis Rees-Zammit, Harry Randall and fellow back-row Fitz Harding in pledging his future to the Bears.

“I’m very happy to extend my time here at Bristol Bears,” the Fijian said. “From the moment I arrived, I felt the belief from the coaches, the players and the supporters.

“This club has big ambitions, and I want to be part of achieving something special. Playing in front of the Bears fans at Ashton Gate is something I really enjoy, and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Fixture

Investec Champions Cup

Bristol

15 - 27

Full-time

Bordeaux

All Stats and Data

Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam added: “I’m delighted that Bill has extended his stay with the Bears. He has delivered exactly what we were looking for. In his first season we returned to the top four, and this year we are firmly on track to compete for silverware.

“Bill is one of the most destructive, skilful ball carriers and defenders in world rugby, and he sets the physical tone for us every time he pulls on the shirt. His power and ball-carrying ability are central to how we want to play – he consistently provides front-foot ball, generates momentum, and draws multiple defenders with his offload threat, creating space and opportunities for those around him.

“While Bill is rightly known for his big moments, what we value most is his selflessness and team-first mentality. That’s reflected in his unseen work, and the attention to detail he puts into the set-piece and the hard graft up front.”

Bristol take on European champions Bordeaux-Begles this Sunday at home.