Sale Sharks have confirmed the signing of released Bristol Bears lock Alex Groves on a long-term contract.
Sale direct of rugby Alex Sanderson has labeled 21-year-old Groves as a player of huge potential.
The towering 21-year-old, who was born in South Africa but has represented England at Under 20 level, joins Sharks immediately after leaving Bristol Bears last week by mutual consent having not made a Premiership appearance this season.
Groves joined Bristol Bears on a two-year deal in January 2020, after leaving St John’s College in Cape Town, South Africa.
The 6ft 8in, 120kg second rower was called up to the England U20 squad for the 2020 Six Nations and the following year was named in the 32-man elite player squad for the 2021 U20 championships.
He made his first appearance for the Bears’ first team in a Premiership Rugby Cup clash against Worcester Warriors in November.
