WORCESTER Warriors have confirmed number eight Khalik Kareem will depart the club for Bristol Bears at the end of the season.
Kareem has impressed for Warriors in Champ Rugby this season and will make the step up to PREM Rugby next term.
The 21-year-old has scored three tries in 15 appearances for Matt Everard’s side this campaign.
Everard said: “Everyone at the club wishes Khalik all the very best for his move to Bristol.
“It’s a credit to his hard work this season. Our programme is designed to improve individuals, and Khalik has invested in that every day.
“Khalik is desperate to improve in the week and perform on the weekend, which is exactly what he’s done.
“I’m extremely proud of Khalik and the programme we’ve built here, he’s been able to shine in a Warriors shirt and earn a move to a huge club of Bristol’s stature.”
Kareem added: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Bristol Bears and to start this new chapter in my career.
“The ambition of the club, the style of rugby they play, and the opportunity to be part of something building here really inspired me.
“At the same time, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone at Worcester Warriors – the players, staff, and supporters – for their support and belief in me.
“I’ve made some unforgettable memories there and I’ll always be grateful for my time at the club.
“Now I’m looking forward to giving everything I’ve got for Bristol and embracing the challenge ahead.”
Bristol currently sit third in the PREM table and only trail leaders Northampton Saints by six points.
Bristol’s director of rugby, Pat Lam, added: ” Khalik is a player with tremendous potential.
“He possesses outstanding physical attributes – power, athleticism and presence – that consistently show in his ability to dominate collisions and influence the game.
“What has impressed me most is his hunger to improve and his determination to take his performance to the next level.
“We have a strong track record of identifying and developing talent from the Championship, and we believe this environment provides the ideal platform for Khalik to refine his game and realise his full potential.”
