Tomas Francis: Sale Sharks Sign Wales International Prop for Next Season
The Sale Sharks have secured the services of Wales international tight-head prop Tomas Francis for the upcoming season, marking a significant addition to their squad. The 33-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having previously played in the English top flight with the Exeter Chiefs, where he achieved remarkable success, including winning the league and Champions Cup double in 2020.
His journey continued with a two-season stint at the Ospreys before a move to the French second tier side Provence in 2023. Francis expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'I had a really good time at Exeter, so I know the Prem well, and I'm excited to play with guys like Luke Cowan-Dickie again.'
Despite his successful international career, Francis is eager to take on a new challenge. He shared, 'I've had a real adventure in France, but I wanted to take the next step. After speaking with Alex [Sanderson, director of rugby], I knew this was the right move.'
The Sale Sharks are building something special, playing the kind of rugby Francis adores. With a top-four squad, he is eager to contribute to their success. Francis has earned 77 caps for Wales, participated in three Rugby World Cups, and celebrated a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2019.
His addition to the team is particularly notable as he joins fellow Wales international Nicky Smith, who has also agreed to join Sale for the upcoming season. Francis expressed his love for playing for Wales and his aspirations to represent the nation again, stating, 'I love playing for Wales, and I still have ambitions to wear that red shirt.'
Sale's director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, praised Francis's decision, highlighting his desire to play at the highest level and his belief in the club's potential. Sanderson noted, 'At his age, he still wants to compete at the top, and he sees this club as a pathway to achieve that. Adding him and Nicky to the squad brings a wealth of experience, almost 140 caps, which will be invaluable for our younger props.'
This announcement comes on the heels of scrum-half Raffi Quirke's departure from the club, who confirmed his move to the Newcastle Red Bulls after eight years with the Sale Sharks.
