Sale Welcome Hines to the Ranks

Sale Sharks have confirmed the signing of Scottish international Nathan Hines from Clermont on a two-year contract.

After the departutre of two key forwards, in the shape of prop Henry Thomas to Bath and back-rower James Gaskell to Wasps, the Manchester-based side have looked to bolster their pack with the 37-year-old forward.

Although born in Australia, 6ft 7ins Hines emigrated to Europe in 1999, when he joined Edinburgh.

Hines, who began his career in rugby league, is currently in his second spell in French rugby, having left Edinburgh after six years to join Perpignan in 2005.

From there, he moved to Ireland and was a member of Leinster's 2010-11 Heineken Cup-winning side, before he returned to France with Clermont.

In the meantime the now proud Scot has won 77 caps for his country.

"Nathan is a world-class player and will fit in well," said Sale director rugby Steve Diamond. "He has vast experience at the highest level.

"Nathan is a regular starter at Clermont," Diamond added. "Last weekend he was magnificent in helping his team beat Racing away in Paris.

"The forwards at Sale Sharks have played well this season and adding Nathan to the group will be a big boost to us."

Hines retired from international rugby in 2011 after taking part in his third World Cup.