Bazalgette comes in to replace Alvarez
CORNISH Pirates have wasted no time in replacing fly-half/centre Javier Rojas Alvarez, who has decided against returning to Cornwall, with the signing of Harry Bazalgette, writes Stuart James
Argentina international Alvarez has spent two seasons playing for the Pirates, making 42 appearances in two seasons and scoring an impressive 279 points, having first signed in April 2018. But the popular 29-year-old leaves the Duchy having undergone a knee operation.
“Wherever my career has taken me, I try to learn as much as possible, which was certainly so at the Pirates,” he said.
“Learning so much more than just rugby, my thanks are extended to the many people who supported me and who I got to know. It was a great experience and a time that I’ll never forget.
“With the support of the many fine people in the community of Cornwall, I wish the Cornish Pirates all the very best in the future for the club to fulfil its ambition.”
Quickly in to replace the Argentine ace is 22-year-old Bazalgette, who was born in Inverness and has represented the likes of Dorset & Wiltshire Under-20s, Wimborne RFC and Exeter University RFC.
During his time at the University of Exeter, he proved to be a prolific points scorer with the boot, having worked closely with coaching personnel Keith Fleming, Richard Hodges, Haydn Thomas, and Tony Yapp.
Speaking with reference to this latest signing, Cornish Pirates’ joint head coach Gavin Cattle said: “He was brought to our attention and, looking at Harry play and then seeing him training, we liked what we saw.
“He has a strong kicking game, leads by example and has good knowledge and game management for a young man.
“Although not tested at Championship level, Harry undoubtedly shows considerable potential and is someone who will be exciting to work with.”
Graduating with First Class Honours in Mathematics with Finance, Harry is presently studying MSc Finance and Investment.
Also, as a student ambassador at the University of Exeter, he has been an ‘Oddballs Ambassador’, helping to raise awareness of testicular cancer, as well as encouraging people to talk about wider health issues.