Alex Groves

Promising lock Alex Groves joined Sharks on a long-term contract in February 2022 after leaving Gallagher Premiership rivals Bristol Bears.

The towering second row, who was born in South Africa but has represented England at Under 20 level, had joined the Bears on a two-year deal in January 2020, after leaving St John’s College in Cape Town.

He made his first appearance for the Bears’ first team in a Premiership Rugby Cup clash against Worcester Warriors in November 2021.

Alex was called up to the England U20 squad for the 2020 Six Nations and the following year was named in the 32-man elite player squad for the 2021 U20 championships.

After clinching the signing, Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said his new man has a big future ahead of him.

He said: “Alex has all the attributes to be a really top player and I can’t wait to see him in action. He’s still young but he’s already a powerful guy with all the skills you need from a modern-day lock.

“This club is committed to giving young players opportunities, so Alex knows that if he works hard and develops in the way we believe he can, he’s got a big future here.”