Wednesday Evening Round Up

George North signs for Ospreys

After months of speculation, Ospreys have confirmed that Wales and Lions winger George North will join the club ahead of the 2018/19 season.

 The Northampton Saints winger has been mulling over which region to commit to since flagging up his intention six months ago to return to Wales on national dual contract. Full story

Campese Ma’afu to leave Northampton Saints

Northampton Saints have confirmed that prop Campese Ma’afu will be leaving Franklin’s Gardens at the end of this season.

The 33-year-old has made 35 appearances in the Black, Green and Gold jersey having joined from French side Provence in 2016. Full story

Aaron Jarvis Joins Dragons

Tighthead prop Aaron Jarvis will return to Wales this summer to join Dragons from Clermont Auvergne on a two-year contract.

Jarvis made his international debut in November 2012 against Argentina in Cardiff, adding a further 17 appearances with his last outing for Wales against the All Blacks in 2016. Full story

Paice calls time on his playing career

London Irish legend David Paice will retire at the end of the season after more than 14 years on from making his first-team debut for the Exiles. 

The one club man, 34, is Irish’s most capped player having clocked up 288 appearances during an illustrious playing career that has seen him win eight England caps. Full story

Liam Squire in doubt for June tests

Highlanders and All Blacks loose forward Liam Squire is in doubt for the June test series against France due to a setback in his recovery from a broken thumb.

Highlanders assistant coach Mark Hammett confirmed that he is expected to miss another six weeks. Full story

Allen Clarke appointed Ospreys Head Coach

Ospreys Rugby have confirmed that Allen Clarke has been appointed Head Coach on a three-year contract.

The former Ireland hooker, who joined the Ospreys last summer as Forwards Coach, has been in interim control of the senior team since January. Full story

Izzy Noel-Smith announces retirement from rugby

Bristol Ladies and Red Roses back-row forward, Izzy Noel Smith, has announced her retirement from rugby.
 
The 29-year-old, who made her England debut in 2011, calls time on a glittering career after winning 42 caps for her country. Full story