The Ospreys confirmed today that they had signed the highly coveted Queensland Reds lock, Ryan Smith, who will join up with the team ahead of the 25/26 season.
Smith, who has been applauded by his club for his contributions as a leader, captained the Reds in their recent win over the Western Force last month.
The 6’6” lock has made 69 appearances so far for the Reds and was included in Joe Schmidt’s 38-man Wallabies training squad back in June. He has also made six appearances for Australia A.
A two-way colossus, Smith is known for his relentless work rate and clinical tackling ability, with him being one of the Super Rugby Pacific’s most efficient tacklers this season (92% completion rate).
Speaking on his move, Smith said: “I’m extremely grateful for my time at the Queensland Reds and for everyone at the club that has played a part in my development to this point. It’s important for me to repay that by giving my all until the end of the season and leaving on a high note.
“There is a great opportunity here for me to test myself in a new environment, which is always a challenge, but that is something that drives me as a player and person.
“It’s an exciting time to be joining the Ospreys, they’re playing some really attractive rugby under Mark Jones and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.
Head Coach, Mark Jones, said: “Signing Ryan is a real coup for the Ospreys but it’s also evidence of the progress we are making as a club.
“Ryan has all the physical attributes needed to be a top Ospreys player, and he’s shown some real X-factor capabilities that we feel can have a positive influence on the all-court game we’re striving to play.
“When the opportunity arises to sign a quality impact player on both sides of the ball you have to take it, so I’m really happy the club has managed to get this one over the line.
“There’s also an excellent opportunity here for our younger locks to benefit from training alongside an experienced player who comes from a different playing background, which will be a massive benefit for their development in the long-term.”
