Versitile prop Cai Griffiths can play at both tighthead and loosehead

LONDON IRISH has signed Ospreys tight head prop forward Cai Griffiths.

Griffiths, who can also operate at loose head, has made over 100 appearances for the Welsh province, competing in the Rabo Direct Pro 12, LV and Heineken Cups.

The front rower, who stands 188cm and weighs 120kgs, was part of the Ospreys side that won the Celtic League in 2005 and Magners League in 2007 and 2009.

The 28 year-old English qualified player, was under the tutelage of Wales and British and Irish Lions tight head, Adam Jones, and has developed into a powerful scrummager and key lineout lifter. He is also very effective in the loose and possesses very good handling skills.

London Irish director of rugby, Brian Smith said: “Cai is very solid at the set piece which is crucial when signing a tight head prop. He is a direct replacement for Faan Rautenbach who is leaving London Irish after seven years service. We look forward to welcoming Cai to the Club.”

Cai Griffiths said: “Joining London Irish offers me the chance to test myself in a gruelling Aviva Premiership competition week in, week out. It is a challenge I am certainly looking forward to and one I am relishing. I have enjoyed nine fantastic years at the Ospreys and would like to thank the players and coaching staff for all their help during my time there.”