SHARKS will swap scrum-halves with Llanelli Scarlets this summer – with Sililo Martens and Dwayne Peel trading clubs.

Peel signed a three-year deal with Sharks last month, in a move that will see the Wales number nine share the scrum-half duties with his England counterpart Richard Wigglesworth.

The acquisition of Peel has prompted the departure of Ben Foden, to Northampton Saints, and Martens, to Llanelli, at the end of the season.

Martens played for Welsh sides Swansea, Bridgend and Celtic Warriors before coming to Edgeley Park and his wife is currently living across the border.

Sharks head coach Kingsley Jones believes the move will suit Martens personally and professionally.

"I’m really pleased it has worked out well for him," said Jones.

"I think it will work out perfectly him going to Scarlets, but he has got a big part still to play here.

"He’s been fantastic for us, but with Wigglesworth at the level he is at and the opportunity to sign a 26-year-old with as many caps as Dwayne, there aren’t the same opportunities for Sililo here.

"At Llanelli he will continue to be first choice at a high level."

Thirty-year-old former Tongan international Martens has been capped 27 times and made his debut for Sharks in 2004.

Martens said: "With everything that is happening off the pitch with the Scarlets at the moment, this is an exciting time to be part of the region’s future plans.

"I would like to wish Dwayne Peel all the best in his move to Sale. I know I’ve got huge boots to fill at the Scarlets but anyone who knows me will know that I am always up for a challenge."

Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher said: "We have been looking for a scrum-half in particular because of Dwayne Peel’s decision to ply his trade elsewhere.

"We felt Sililo Martens was the one for us. He’s vastly experienced, he’ll suit our style, he’s very strong defensively and will be a big plus to the squad."

FOR a second consecutive league tie, Sharks will face the club currently at the top of the Premiership pile as they host Bath on Friday night.

Two weeks ago Sharks triumphed against Gloucester, who were then league leaders, recording a 22-16 victory, a scoreline that flattered the West Country club.

"In some ways I’m sure that the bigger the game the bigger the performance," said Jones. "I really respect Bath – they are a good team, well coached and well organised. It will be a big challenge.

"It’s no surprise they are top of the league."

The last time Bath won at Edgeley Park in the Premiership was in September 2003. In the four most recent league clashes between the two sides the hosts have triumphed.

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