Bristol scouting mission bears fruit with signing of U20s star

Bristol Bears have announced the signing of Argentina U20s fullback Benjamin Elizalde one week after their fifth-place finish at the World Rugby U20 Championship.

The 19-year-old will arrive at Ashton Gate from Deportiva Francesa.

RugbyPass had reported that Bristol had sent scouts out to the World Championship in South Africa, and the mission appears to have paid off already, with Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam describing the Argentine as “one of the most exciting young talents in the world game.”

Elizalde can operate across the back three, as well as the midfield, and will help bolster Bristol’s kicking options next season.

With Piers O’Conor and Virimi Vakatawa leaving the club at the end of last season, Elizalde will provide options in the back line for Lam.

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World Rugby U20 Championship

Australia U20

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Argentina U20

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“I am very happy to have signed with Bristol and for the opportunity they have given me,” the teenager said after signing.

“It is a very prestigious club with great players from whom I can learn a lot. I can’t wait to start training with the team and to fight for my place alongside a fantastic squad.”

Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Benjamin is one of the most exciting young talents in the world game and I’m really pleased to bring him into the Bears environment.

“His performances for Argentina at the Junior World Cup showcased his obvious talent and I believe he will have the opportunity to further develop his potential at the Bears within our environment.

“We have been monitoring Benjamin closely for a while now and we know how highly rated he is by Felipe Contepomi and his Argentina coaching team. Benjamin’s well-rounded skillset, ability to play across the backline and attacking threat fits the Bears Way perfectly.”