Ospreys Continue To Build For The Future

The Ospreys today confirmed that international prop Duncan Jones has extended his contract through to May 2010In addition the Ospreys confirmed they had signed two centres in Mark Taylor from Sale Sharks and Jonathan Spratt from Neath

The Ospreys today confirmed that international prop Duncan Jones has extended his contract through to May 2010

 

In addition the Ospreys confirmed they had signed two centres in Mark Taylor from Sale Sharks and Jonathan Spratt from Principality Premiership Champions Neath Rugby

 

Spratt is 21 years old, stands at 6ft 2in and weighs 15st 6lbs - He has played for Wales at Under-20 level and signs for three years through to the end of May 2010

 

Taylor is 34 years old, stands at 6ft 1in and weighs 14st 13lbs - He has won 52 Wales caps and joins the Ospreys from Sale Sharks, signing a two year contract to the end of May 2009

 

Commenting on the signings, Ospreys Director of Rugby, Kevin Hopkins:

 

"We have recently signed of a number of quality players and again this week I am delighted to confirm that Duncan Jones has extended his contract through to May 2010, along with newcomers in Jonathan Spratt and Mark Taylor.  Duncan has been a cornerstone of the Ospreys pack since our formation and securing the services of players like him is vital in terms of the continuity of the squad.  Building a competitive squad is not only about signing quality new players, it is also about securing the talent you have within your current squad."

 

Commenting on the signing of Spratt and Taylor, Head Coach, Lyn Jones added:

 

"Jonathan has been a key member of the successful Neath side of the last few seasons and he is a player of great potential.  He is able to play in a number of positions and his versatility, natural ability and athleticism will I am sure secure him a fine future as a professional rugby player.  Mark is a hugely experienced player and younger individuals like Jonathan Spratt and Andrew Bishop will benefit from his presence in the squad.  He is a consummate professional and will bring us solidity at centre during world cup year.  You need a blend of youth and experience in any squad and its about getting the balance right.  When you sign more mature players it's about ensuring they still have the ability on the field, but also that they bring the right kind of influence to the squad, and Mark Taylor firmly fits the bill on both counts."

 

..and speaking in respect of Duncan Jones, Jones said:

 

"Duncan has been a key part of everything that has been good about the Ospreys since day one.  He has developed into a senior international and has many more years of top flight rugby in front of him.  He would have been a valuable acquisition for any team, but Duncan is an Osprey through and through and it is unthinkable that he would play regional rugby anywhere else."