Sale Sharks have announced the signing of Wales loose-head prop Nicky Smith from Leicester Tigers, with the 31-year-old committing to a three-year contract starting next season. Smith, who has earned 59 caps for Wales and was named in the Gallagher Premiership Team of the Season last year, rejected a new deal at Leicester to join the Manchester-based club.

Smith’s Move to Sale

Smith expressed excitement at joining a club with clear ambitions:

“I spoke to Alex Sanderson and I loved how ambitious he was about what the club wants to achieve. It’s really exciting to be joining a team that is so clear about wanting to win things and compete for every trophy. Sale have so many quality international players, especially in the front row, so I can’t wait to play and train with those lads because I know that will help my game. I feel like I’m playing my best rugby at the moment but I know I can still improve. Hopefully I’ll have my best years in a Sale shirt.”

The move gives Smith the opportunity to play alongside a high-quality forward pack, while continuing to compete at the top level of Premiership Rugby and maintaining his ambitions for international duty and World Cup selection.

Sale Sharks’ Director of Rugby on Signing

Alex Sanderson, Sale’s director of rugby, praised Smith’s ability and experience:

“Nicky has been one of the most aggressive, consistent, high-quality scrummagers in the Premiership over the past couple of years. He’s caused us a lot of trouble when we’ve played Leicester in that period, and we’ve always felt that we’d love to have him here. He’s quality in the set-piece but he’s agile and mobile and good around the park too. Off the field we’ve heard nothing but good things about him, so we can’t wait to start working with him.”

Sanderson highlighted how Smith’s ambitions align with Sale’s drive for trophies, noting that his Premiership and international experience will be invaluable for the Sharks as they aim to compete at the highest levels.

Career Highlights

• 59 caps for Wales, contributing across multiple Six Nations campaigns and Rugby World Cups
• Gallagher Premiership Team of the Season, recognized for scrummaging strength and work rate
• Formerly played for Ospreys before joining Leicester Tigers, establishing himself as one of the Premiership’s top props

Smith’s experience and technical ability in the scrum, open play, and set-piece make him a key addition to Sale’s forward pack, strengthening the team ahead of both domestic and European competitions.

Looking Ahead

With the signing of Smith, Sale Sharks are aiming to bolster their front-row depth and challenge for major trophies in the upcoming seasons. Fans can expect Smith to play a pivotal role in both the United Rugby Championship (URC) and Premiership Rugby, while continuing to represent Wales on the international stage.