Ross Moriarty has described his return to Welsh rugby with the Ospreys as a deeply personal homecoming after sealing a move from French club Brive.
The 31-year-old Wales and British & Irish Lions back row has signed for the Swansea-based region ahead of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to a three-year stint in France.
He now prepares to play once again on familiar soil — and, more meaningfully for Moriarty, on a ground steeped in family legacy.
Moriarty’s father, Paul, and his uncle Richard, were both highly successful and key players for the old Swansea RFC in pre-regional times.
“I’m really looking forward to joining the Ospreys and playing in my hometown,” said Moriarty.
“I grew up watching rugby at St Helen’s as a child and it’s a massive honour for me to play on the same ground as my dad and my uncle did.
“It’s a big deal for me, and I look forward to giving my family the chance to watch me play more regularly.”
Moriarty, who played for Gloucester and the Dragons prior to heading to Brive in 2022, enjoyed a successful spell in the Pro D2, becoming a fan favourite and collecting several accolades.
Hi Wales career fizzled out after his move to France, but a return to form next season on home turf could yet revive his Wales chances and see him add to his 56 caps.
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His time in France, however, ended in disappointment as Brive fell short in their semi-final play-off defeat to Montauban.
“What an unforgettable experience,” he wrote in a farewell message.
“Thank you to all the incredible supporters for the passion and energy you brought to every game.
“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to represent this club and for the memories we’ve made as a family. It’s been an honour.”
Now, as he begins a new chapter in Swansea, Moriarty brings a wealth of experience and an uncompromising physical edge — to a region undergoing significant transition.
He joins a back row that includes Morgan Morris, James Ratti, rising talent Morgan Morse, Harri Deaves, and skipper Jac Morgan, helping to plug the void left by the retiring Justin Tipuric.
“I want to bring some real physicality to the game,” said Moriarty.
“It’s been great to watch what Mark Jones is building at the Ospreys, and I can’t wait to be a part of it and bring my own flair to the team.”
Ospreys head coach Jones welcomed the signing, praising Moriarty’s pedigree and competitive nature.
“Ross is a proven international player who brings an edge to everything he does,” said Jones.
“His experience and competitiveness will be a huge asset to us, both on and off the pitch.
“We’re pleased to bring in someone of his calibre as we continue to strengthen our squad and push the standards of this group.”
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While Moriarty has been absent from the Wales set-up since making himself unavailable for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, his return to regional rugby keeps the door open for potential international recall.
But for now, the focus is firmly on re-establishing himself at home — and, as he sees it, honouring family roots.
“It’s a big deal for me,” he said.
Meanwhile, Moriarty’s former Wales teammate, Tomos Williams, has capped a remarkable debut campaign in English rugby by being named Gallagher Premiership Player of the Season, following a stellar year that helped guide Gloucester to a fifth-place finish.
The 30-year-old Welsh international, who has earned 65 caps for his country, joined the Cherry and Whites from Cardiff last summer and wasted no time making his mark.
His electric form throughout the season not only earned widespread plaudits but also secured him a place in the 2025 British and Irish Lions squad for this summer’s tour of Australia.
There, he will battle it out with Ireland’s Jamison Gibson-Park and England’s Alex Mitchell for the Test scrum-half spot.
Reflecting on his first season in the Premiership, Williams said: “I didn't know what to expect from this season. I came in open-minded and I've thoroughly enjoyed it.
“I couldn't have picked a better club than Gloucester, and better coaches, they have been class.
“It was the style of play that appealed. That has shown through the season, they give us the freedom to play and express ourselves and I think that has benefited me and the boys.”
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Williams crossed the try-line nine times during the campaign and consistently impressed with his creativity, speed of thought, and control of the game.
He edged out tough competition for the award, beating Bath stars Thomas du Toit and Finn Russell, Sale’s George Ford, and Saracens powerhouse Tom Willis.
Talks are already underway between Williams and Gloucester over a possible extension to his current deal, which runs until the end of the 2025/26 season.
