Stevens, an integral part of England's World Cup plans, lines up for Bath against Guinness Premiership opponents Harlequins at the Recreation Ground.

He has not worn Bath colours since the west country club's Powergen Cup semi-final defeat against Llanelli Scarlets in March last year.

Bath head coach Steve Meehan said: "We knew last week that Matt wasn't far away.

"We had him taking part in the team warm-up last week to get him back in the swing of things and to help him prepare."

Stevens' Test career was also put on hold as a result of his injury, but England head coach Brian Ashton will be greatly encouraged by a return to Premiership action.