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Ospreys sign Wales back row Moriarty from Brive

Ross Moriarty pictured at St Helen'sOspreys

Ross Moriarty's father Paul and uncle Richard both played for Swansea and Wales

Ospreys have completed the g of Wales back row Ross Moriarty from French side Brive.

The British and Irish Lion returns to the Swansea-based region, where he was brought up, and is looking forward to playing at Ospreys' new St Helen's home next season.

"I grew up watching rugby at St Helen's as a child and it's a massive honour for me to play on the same ground as my dad and my uncle did," said Moriarty.

"It's a big deal for me and I look forward to giving my family the chance to watch me play more regularly."

Moriarty's presence will help fill the back-row void left by the retiring Justin Tipuric, who will become the region's defence coach next season in the backroom staff of head coach Mark Jones.

Bringing the physicality

Ross Moriarty in action for Ospreys against DragonsHuw Evans Picture Agency

Ross Moriarty played the most recent of his 54 internationals for Wales in March 2022

Moriarty has specialised at blind-side flanker and number eight and will a squad that includes back-row options like James Ratti, Morgan Morris, Morgan Morse, Harri Deaves and captain Jac Morgan.

"I want to bring some real physicality to the game," said Moriarty.

"It's been great to watch what Mark Jones is building at the Ospreys and I can't wait to be a part of it and bring my own flair to the team."

Moriarty, 31, remains eligible for Wales, although he was left out of campaigns by former head coaches Wayne Pivac and Warren Gatland before making himself unavailable for the 2023 World Cup.

He left Dragons for in 2023 having had a previous six-year spell with Gloucester.

"Ross is a proven international player who brings an edge to everything he does," said Jones.

"His experience and competitiveness will be a huge asset to us, both on and off the pitch.

"We're pleased to bring in someone of his calibre as we continue to strengthen our squad and push the standards of this group."

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