Former Saints scrum-half Kessell signs for Premiership title chasers

Kessell has signed a short-term deal at title-chasing Bristol Bears, where he is set to line up alongside the likes of Semi Radradra and Charles Piutau if given the opportunity.

The 30-year-old, who spent time on loan at Bristol during the 2014/15 Championship campaign, has headed to Ashton Gate as injury cover for Chris Cook, who is ruled out until September with a back injury.

Kessell spent four years at Cornish Pirates before making the switch to Saints, where he made 22 appearances.

He joined Coventry for the 2018/19 GKIPA Championship campaign.

And Bristol boss Pat Lam said: “With the unfortunate injury to Chris Cook, it’s good to be able to bring somebody in of Tom’s experience to give us depth at the scrum-half position.

“With nine regular season games in a short turnaround, depth and rotation is going to be critical to ensure we are ready and prepared for the challenge that awaits.

“Chris will be working hard with the medical team to get back to full fitness and in the meantime Tom will provide competition alongside Harry Randall, Andy Uren and Integrated Academy player Blake Boyland.”