Rice returns to the Pirates

Lock forward Charlie Rice, who last season made one appearance for the Cornish Pirates when on a short-term loan from Bristol Bears, has put pen to paper on a full-time contract with the Pirates for the 2024-25 campaign.

Aged 21, Bristol-born Charlie is a former SGS Filton College student, and England under 18s and 20s lock forward, who has previously played for clubs including Gordano Sharks and for Hartpury in the Championship. Also, just ahead of joining the Pirates he played for Sumner RFC in New Zealand.

Pleased to capture Charlie’s signature, Cornish Pirates’ joint head coach Alan Paver has commented:

“Charlie is a talented forward who has played a good amount of senior rugby, and we are particularly delighted to welcome him on board.

“Still very much a young man, and one able to play that physical role, he is another player with a great profile.”

Alan added:

“Having gained experience playing in New Zealand since he was last here was good both for him and us, as he returns with the bit between his teeth, which is fabulous.

“His aim now will be to play regularly, and show expected determination and a hunger to progress, as such young men do.”