Bristol sign one of Cheika's 'outstanding' Argentina back-rowers

Having reportedly missed out on signing Argentina back row Juan Martin Gonzalez Samso, who joined Saracens earlier this week, Bristol have instead signed Samo’s Pumas teammate, Santiago Grondona.

Both players were named on Thursday by Michael Cheika to start in this Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash with the Springboks in Johannesburg.

In the meantime, the Bears have confirmed that Grondona, the ex-Exeter forward who finished out last season with Pau in the Top 14, will be lining out for them after the upcoming Rugby World Cup in their 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership campaign.

A statement read: “Powerhouse Argentinian back row Santiago Grondona has joined Bristol Bears, the club can confirm. The 14-cap Puma, who can operate across the back row and in the second row, made a mid-season switch from Exeter Chiefs to French Top 14 side Pau in February 2023.

“The 24-year-old played a starring role for Argentina in their dramatic last-gasp victory over Australia, making 10 tackles as the Pumas won 31-34.”

Bristol director of rugby Lam said: “Santiago is a versatile, powerful back row forward and we are pleased to bring in a player of his quality to bolster the depth in our pack ahead of the new season.

"He has been outstanding in international rugby over the past 12 months and continues to go from strength to strength. He will add huge value to us on and off the field and we look forward to him joining up with the squad.”

Grondona added: “I am very eager to arrive in Bristol to meet my new teammates, and I’m really looking forward to working with Pat.

"Playing at Ashton Gate in front of our fans is going to be amazing too and I will give everything to make sure we achieve our goals this season.”