Waratahs announce signing of Hayden Thompson-Stringer

Waratahs have announced the signing of former England Under 20 international Hayden Thompson-Stringer ahead of the 2024 season.

The 28-year-old made his professional rugby debut with Saracens in 2013 and after making close to 50 appearances for the Premiership side, he made a switch to Brive in 2019 before heading to La Rochelle in 2023. He also had a loan stint with Bedford Blues.

Thompson-Stringer also represented England at the Under 18 and Under 20 levels in the past.

“I’m grateful to Darren and his coaching staff for having faith in me and giving me another opportunity to come over and represent the famous sky blue," he told the club's official website.

“NSW are heading in the right direction, and I hope I can contribute to their journey.”

Waratahs Head Coach Darren Coleman is delighted to have acquired the services of Thompson-Stringer.

“Hayden has now gained plenty of experience and it’s exciting to have him in a sky-blue jersey,” Coleman said.

“One of the things we identified from our season review was the need to add some size and depth to our front row roster, and Hayden brings that to our team.

“He made a very positive impression on people in his Manly stint some years back, as a good person and team man, he returns with his young family and it’s great to be able to provide life and travel opportunities to good young men through our great game."