Sale Sharks confirm signing of Wales' Nicky Smith

Nicky Smith admits that he hopes to spend the best years of his career with Sale Sharks after it was confirmed he is moving to the North West on a three-year deal this summer.

RugbyPass broke the news last week that Wales loosehead Smith was leaving Leicester Tigers for the Sharks when his contract runs out at the end of the season.

Smith, who started his career with his hometown club, the Ospreys, moved to Welford Road two years ago and was named in the PREM Rugby Team of the Season earlier this year.

And he says that the first impression of the Sharks was the ambition of Alex Sanderson, who is also bringing in England centre Joe Marchant for next season.

“I spoke to Alex Sanderson, and I loved how ambitious he was about what the club wants to achieve. It’s really exciting to be joining a team that is so clear about wanting to win things and compete for every trophy.

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“As an opposition player, Sale is always a really tough place to go, and as a forward, you know that you need to front up. I’m looking forward to being part of that team from next season.

“Sale have so many quality international players, especially in the front row so I can’t wait to play and train with those lads because I know that will help my game.

I feel like I’m playing my best rugby at the moment, but I know I can still improve. Hopefully I’ll have my best years in a Sale shirt,” he said.

Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson points out that Smith has always caused his side problems when they have played against him, and he cannot wait for him to join.

“Nicky has been one of the most aggressive, consistent, high-quality scrummagers in the Prem over the past couple of years.

“He’s caused us a lot of trouble when we’ve played Leicester in that period, and we’ve always felt that we’d love to have him here. He’s quality in the set-piece, but he’s agile and mobile and good around the park too.

“He comes with a lot of experience in the Prem and at international level. Our ambitions to compete for trophies and his ambitions to continue to get better and to play in World Cups are aligned.

“Off the field, we’ve heard nothing but good things about him, so we can’t wait to start working with him,” said Sanderson.