Coventry sign dual qualified ex-Wasps centre Tommy Matthews

Coventry Rugby have added an exciting new face to their squad with the signing of Tommy Mathews from RFU Championship rivals Hartpury.

The 23-year-old who will hook up with his new club when pre-season commences in early July is able to play at fly half and centre.

According to head coach Alex Rae, Cov’s latest acquisition will add useful skills to the squad.

“Tommy is a young man who’s a really talented footballer but also has a great kicking game,” he said.

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“He’s got plenty of experience at a young age and are really excited to see the further development and growth in his game which will be possible in our environment.”

Former Hartpury student Mathews has the unusual distinction of representing Wales as an under-18 through his Welsh father before going on to play for England during their 2021 under-20s campaign.

His early rugby was played at Petersfield RFC then as part of Gloucester’s junior academy before a stint in Northampton’s senior academy saw him feature in the Championship during loan spells with Bedford Blues, Ampthill and Nottingham.

After a short-term deal as injury cover at Wasps allowed Mathews to play in both the Champions Cup and Gallagher Premiership, the Hampshire product returned to Gloucestershire with Hartpury prior to the start of the 2022/23 season.

Since then he has combined studying for the first two years of a degree in strength and conditioning with taking his career senior appearance total into the 80s.

Mathews said he has been drawn to the Butts Park Arena by his new club’s clear ambition.

“The signings Coventry have made this year are very exciting and being part of that is something I’m really looking forward to,” he said.

“They clearly have aspirations to win the Championship and the chance to work alongside their coaching team in that environment is something I couldn’t turn down.”