BACK row Amanaki Mafi is returning to Japan prior to the end of the season, Bath revealed today.

Mafi joined Bath in January on a short-term loan for the remainder of the season after starring in Japan's Rugby World Cup campaign.

The Tongan-born player, 26, said, “I would like to thank Bath Rugby for the opportunity to play in the Aviva Premiership, and for all the support they have given my family and I throughout our time in England.”