Ospreys back-rower Sam Cross to join Newcastle Falcons

Newcastle Falcons have announced the signing of former Ospreys back-rower Sam Cross ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Cross started his professional rugby career with Welsh club Ebbw Vale and went on to represent Cardiff Met and Newport before joining Ospreys in 2017.

The 30-year-old has gone on to make 72 appearances for the Welsh province and represented Wales in two Tests that came in 2017. Cross also represented Wales 7s side in more than 100 games and was part of the Great Britain 7s side that went on to win the silver medal in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

“I spoke to Alex earlier in the summer about his plans for Newcastle, which really excited me, and when you combine that with what he helped to achieve over at Oyonnax last season I was keen to link up with him," he told the club's official website.

“The opportunity to play in the Gallagher Premiership was also a big draw because I’ve loved watching it for years, and it’s a great product.

“Newcastle’s artificial pitch will suit me because I like a quick game, and I’m used to the cold with being from Brynmawr in the Welsh valleys!”