Sharks add bite with a new signing
SALE Sharks have announced another signing to strengthen their pack in the form of Doncaster Knights’ WillGriff John.
The tighthead prop has been at the Championship club for three years and has helped them to a fourth-place finish in the second tier, ahead of a promotion play-off second leg with league-winners London Irish.
Despite being just 24, John joins having represented Wales at all youth levels, including helping the U20s to a third-place finish in the 2012 World Cup.
Sharks boss Steve Diamond was pleased to bring a ‘consistent performer’ into his squad ahead of next season.
“WillGriff is a great signing for us and I look forward to working with him,” said Diamond.
“He has been one of the most consistent performers in the Championship and is a good ball carrier who also works hard in defence.”
John becomes Sale’s sixth signing ahead of next season, following on from Jono Ross, Josh Strauss, Alexandra Tarus and returning Bristol pair Marc Jones and Will Cliff – but Diamond’s recruitment isn’t finished just yet with more big-name signings around the corner.
“There’s loads in the pipeline. We’re waiting for press releases to be agreed and various things like that. We’re not far off. I think we’re talking about world class players.”
It’s been one in, one out this week at the AJ Bell Stadium with young centre Sam Bedlow leaving to join Bristol.
However, Diamond isn’t ruling out Bedlow’s chances of donning the Sale jersey in the future.
“When you get the opportunity you’ve got to take it. Credit to him, he’s going to play. He’s going down a level to get some game time and hopefully he’ll get enough to learn how to be top level.”
Saturday’s season finale will see Wales legend Mike Phillips retire, Sammy Tuitupou leave and Peter Stringer potentially play his last game for the club, with Diamond admitting Bath’s visit will be emotional.
“There’s also a few people leaving and retiring so it’s going to be a sad day. It’s the last day of the season and it’s a chance to thank the fans and the players, one for contributing off the field and one for contributing on the field.”