FORMER Worcester Rugby Club back row forward Dave Merlin has signed for Midlands One new boys Malvern.

Merlin, who has also played for Northampton, Blackheath and Stourbridge, will play for the Spring Lane side whenever work commitments allow.

Malvern's Director of Rugby David Robins said: "David retired from professional rugby last season to concentrate on his business, but has agreed to turn out for Malvern at least for the first half of the season.

"This alleviates an enormous problem, as two of our three recognised number eight players are suffering from long-term injuries. Paul Hart (arm) and Mark Gaubert (ankle) are not likely to be match fit until Christmas.

"Dave's introduction to the back row will give us a real boost, and hopefully his experience of playing at the highest club level in the Premiership will rub off onto the other members of the pack."

Competitive play starts with the Droitwich Tens tournament on Saturday.

The first major test comes on August 25 when they travel to National Three (South) side Reading for a practice match.

They hope to have another training match on September 1 in preparation for the league opener at all-conquering Dunstablians on September 8.

Dunstablians have massive funding whereas Malvern will remain a strictly amateur club.