SIONE Kepu has moved to Exeter Chiefs after Worcester decided against a permanent deal.

The New Zealander, who arrived at Sixways in October on a three-month trial, is too raw to add anything to Worcester's Premiership campaign and will link up with Ian Bremner at the County Ground.

The 24-year-old winger, who has played sevens rugby for the All Blacks, made an immediate impact for the Warriors at Headingley when he scored a second-half try after coming off the bench.

However, in his next Premiership outing against Gloucester, head coach Andy Keast put him on in the second-half, only to replace the substitute minutes later.

The 18-stone back hasn't been seen since and will now join Exeter at the end of the month until May 1.

"We have first option on Sione," said Keast. "However, we won't be taking that up and we wish him all the best.

"I'm sure Sione will enjoy the sights of Exeter after enjoying his stay in Worcester. Certainly, National One rugby will be a new experience for him."

Exeter plan to use Kepu as an impact player before he moves on to Toshiba in Japan at the end of May.

The deal has come about because of recommendations from former Exeter players Dale Rasmussen and Saosi Vaili who have been living with Kepu during his Sixways stay.

Meanwhile, Worcester have injury doubts over their centres for Monday's trip to Leicester Tigers.

Thomas Lombard was sent for an X-ray on his shoulder yesterday after taking a knock during Saturday's Powergen Cup defeat to London Irish, while Rasmussen has a chest injury.

Ben Hinshelwood, though, trained yesterday and, if there is no reaction today, he should be in the mix for the Premiership clash.

Skipper Pat Sanderson will also return after serving his suspension.

n Worcester Wanderers have been handed a home tie in the last 16 of the Powergen Junior Vase.

The Wanderers, who progressed to the sixth round with a stunning victory over Harborne on Saturday, will entertain Avonmouth Old Boys from Bristol on January 15.

Worcester were indebted to two late tries from coach Steve Lloyd which took them through by the narrowest of margins. The sides drew 24-24 but Worcester qualified because they scored three tries to their opponents' two.