Premiership club signs Pumas forward who helped to beat England

Rookie Argentina international Ignacio Ruiz has been unveiled as a new London Irish signing less than three weeks after he came off the bench to help his country defeat England at Twickenham. The 21-year-old played the final 13 minutes of the Autumn Nations Series win in London and he was also a used replacement in the follow-up matches versus Wales and Scotland.

Having featured earlier this year for the Jaguares XV in the Superliga Americana de Rugby, Ruiz debuted for Argentina against the Scots in July and he then prepared for his country’s recent UK tour by playing grassroots rugby at home for Regatas Bella Vista in the URBA Top 14.

Ruiz now links up at London Irish with former Argentina captain Agustin Creevy, the hooker he replaced off the bench in the November 12 match versus Wales in Cardiff.

A statement read: “London Irish can confirm the signing on Thursday of Argentina international Ignacio Ruiz. The 21-year-old hooker joins up with the Exiles with immediate effect, adding to Irish’s already plentiful contingent of Argentine talent.

“Ruiz has played a part in Argentina’s recent strong form, coming off the bench in wins over Scotland in July as well as aiding in Los Pumas’ first win over England in 13 years in the Autumn Nations Series.”

Irish boss Declan Kidney said: “I’d like to welcome Ignacio. The coaching team believe he will be a great fit here and will be made to feel welcome by his fellow countrymen and new teammates alike. His capabilities have been trusted on the international stage recently. His impressive showings at such a young age have made him a great prospect, so we are delighted to have him here with us.”

Ruiz added: “I’m really looking forward to joining Declan and the team in London, it is a big opportunity for me to join a club like London Irish. I have enjoyed playing Test rugby recently with my country, and I feel playing with London Irish will be another big step in the right direction for my career.”