Ex-Scotland flanker Gary Graham to join former Falcons teammate in French third flight

Former Scotland flanker Gary Graham has signed a two-season deal with Carcassonne in France third flight competion, with an option for a third season. The 30-year-old’s move to the French club was finally confirmed after being in the pipeline since last season, though the club’s relegation to Championnat Fédéral Nationale had initially posed challenges to the signing.

Graham brings a wealth of experience to Carcassonne, having started his career at Jersey Reds before moving to Newcastle Falcons in 2017, where he eventually became the team captain. During his six-year stint at Falcons, Graham appeared in 82 games and scored 12 tries.

Notably, he is the son of rugby legend George Graham, who also represented Newcastle Falcons in 80 games.

Graham received an England call-up in December 2017 but despite being part of then-head coach Eddie Jones’ training camp, was never capped.

📡On vous l'avez annoncé il y a quelques mois… Puis sa venue avait été compromise par la descente…

Nous sommes heureux de l'officialiser définitivement : Gary Graham, troisième ligne international 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿, s'est engagé en🟡&⚫️!

➡️https://t.co/286uxfLGIs#DéfendreNotreCité ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/d7LtJUbxuz

— US Carcassonne⚔ (@us_carcassonne) August 2, 2023

In 2019 he officially changed allegiance, earning a Scotland call-up which saw him go on to represent the national team on four occasions between 2019 and 2021.

Joining Carcassonne will reunite Graham with his former Falcons teammate, fellow backrower Carl Fearns, who signed with the Aude club on July 13 for one season.