George North will leave URC for ProD2 - report

It is being reported that Welsh rugby star George North has agreed to join ProD2 club Aix-en-Provence next season from Welsh URC side the Ospreys.

The news comes after earlier reports in Midi Olympique on November 17 hinted at advanced talks between North and the French club, and now, Sud Ouest reveals that the Welsh international has given his formal agreement to play for Provence Rugby in the upcoming season.

His visit to Provence Rugby’s modern facilities and discussions with the club’s management last week paved the way for the agreement, and if completed, this move is expected to have a significant impact on the ProD2 competition and further elevate Provence Rugby’s standing in the league.

Stormers head coach John Dobson on his players’ commitment after their defeat to Cardiff

Stormers head coach John Dobson on his players’ commitment after their defeat to Cardiff

The 31-year-old will join the ranks of Mauricio Reggiardo’s squad, which currently sits in third position in ProD2.

While it reflects the ambitions of the ProD2 side to secure high-profile talent, it underscores the challenges faced by Welsh rugby in retaining talent. With the Ospreys apparently unable to retain the seasoned player, North looks to set to follow in the footsteps of former Wales and Ospreys captain Alun Wyn Jones, who recently played his final game of professional rugby with French side Toulon after exiting Welsh rugby last season.

Provence has certainly landed a stellar name in North.

Having toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2013 and 2017, the 6’4, 109kg winger 31-year-old has an impressive track record of 118 caps for Wales and the Lions. Known for his prolific try-scoring abilities, North’s wealth of experience includes four 6 Nations Tournament victories, two grand slams (2012, 2019), and four Rugby World Cup appearances.