"Bourgoin and the LNR raised a number of concerns with ERC this week regarding the location of the 2009 final after consulting with fans in the wake of their semi-final victory over Worcester Warriors," said ERC chief executive Derek McGrath.

"Even though we began the process of finding a suitable venue for this season's final way back in January, and formally announced Kingsholm as the venue last Sunday, we have been open to the arguments put forward by Bourgoin who are delighted to reach this European final. To their credit Northampton Saints were very understanding and agreed to a switch as a gesture to the French club."

The game will still take place on Friday, May 22 and kick off at 7.45pm.

"It wasn't an easy decision to make, as I will obviously miss playing for the Crusaders and Canterbury," said rhe 31-year-old who will join former Crusaders coach Peter Sloane at the Osaka-based club. It will be his second stint in Japan, having played for Yamaha in 2004.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry said while it was sad to see MacDonald go, he remained "the ultimate professional". "Leon has performed at the very highest level and has done fantastically well for the All Blacks, Crusaders and Canterbury," said Henry. "He has had to overcome major obstacles with injury and has returned to play some exceptional rugby."

The 26-year-old England Sevens captain has made 20 Guinness Premiership starts for the club since joining from Durham University, including two this season.

The England U21 international, who was the highest points scorers in National League One this season, has signed a two year contract that will keep him with the Exiles until the end of the 2010-11 season.

"Being attack minded as a club, the ability to score points is important which is why we're pleased to sign Jamie," said Irish head coach Toby Booth. "His age means that there is the potential to add value to him and improve him as a player as we've done with so many of the young players in our squad."

Gissing, a former Ireland 'A' international, has revealed he will retire and pursue a career in coaching while Meyer will also hang up his boots and return to his native New Zealand.