The Ospreys announced that second row, Will Greatbanks, would be joining the team from Pro D2 team Soyaux Charente (SA XV) at the end of the season. Greatbanks is Welsh qualified through his father who was born in Wales.
The 21 year old lock played at CAR Riberac for 9 years in France before spending time at Bordeaux Begles, he then joined Soyaux Charente in the Pro D2 league in 2019.
Greatbanks has made 10 appearances this season, with seven starts, and picked up a try in SA XV’s win over Provence Rugby last week, in which he ran a superb angle before striding to the try line to finish.
The try was a strong example of the youngster’s athleticism, which is one of his standout attributes, along with a tireless work rate.
Speaking on his move, Greatbanks, said: “I’m excited to be joining the Ospreys at the end of the season. It’s great to have the opportunity to test myself in a new environment and to do it at a club with the rich history of the Ospreys is even better.
“I’ve spoken to Toby and it was clear to see that something special is being built at the Ospreys, I can’t wait to get started.”
Head Coach, Toby Booth, said: “We’re excited to get Will into the setup. Our strategy has been , and will be, to recruit players with great attitudes and high ceiling potential. Will has been cutting his teeth in a tough uncompromising league and shown these attributes. We’re looking forward to welcoming him to the team and seeing him develop as an Osprey.”
This addition to the team not only strengthens the team’s second row options but also adds an exciting narrative for the future, as supporters can eagerly anticipate the contributions of Greatbanks on the pitch for the Ospreys, and potentially on the international front in the long term.
Join us for the 24/25 season to see Will and all of our recent re-signings in action. New members will get the last URC games of this season free, too!
