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Wales loose-head prop Nicky Smith will join Sale Sharks next season on a three-year contract.
The 31-year-old, who has won 59 Wales caps and was named in last season’s Gallagher Prem team of the season, turned down a new deal with Leicester.
“I spoke to Alex Sanderson and I loved how ambitious he was about what the club wants to achieve. It’s really exciting to be joining a team that is so clear about wanting to win things and compete for every trophy,” said Smith.
“As an opposition player, Sale is always a really tough place to go and as a forward, you know that you need to front up. I’m looking forward to being part of that team from next season.
“Sale have so many quality international players, especially in the front row, so I can’t wait to play and train with those lads because I know that will help my game. I feel like I’m playing my best rugby at the moment but I know I can still improve.
“Hopefully I’ll have my best years in a Sale shirt.”
‘He’s caused us a lot of trouble’ – Sanderson
Sanderson, Sale’s director of rugby, was drawn to Smith having been impressed by his performances against the Sharks over the past two seasons since his switch from Ospreys.
“Nicky has been one of the most aggressive, consistent, high-quality scrummagers in the Prem over the past couple of years. He’s caused us a lot of trouble when we’ve played Leicester in that period and we’ve always felt that we’d love to have him here,” said Sanderson.
“He’s quality in the set-piece but he’s agile and mobile and good around the park too.
“He comes with a lot of experience in the Prem and at international level. Our ambitions to compete for trophies and his ambitions to continue to get better and to play in World Cups are aligned.
“Off the field we’ve heard nothing but good things about him so we can’t wait to start working with him.”
