The Ospreys have officially announced the signing of former Australia captain Liam Wright, a move first revealed by WalesOnline last week. The 28-year-old blindside flanker, who has six caps for the Wallabies, captained his country against Wales in 2024 and nearly led the Queensland Reds to victory over Warren Gatland's side on that same tour.
International Career and Eligibility
Wright has not played for Australia since summer 2024 due to a serious shoulder injury. Through his Welsh grandfather, born in Pembroke, he could become eligible for Wales in 2027 after a 36-month stand-down period, potentially ahead of the next Rugby World Cup. However, the Wallabies remain an option, and he has not indicated his preference.
“I’m excited to get started with this new chapter at the Ospreys. I’ve actually got a bit of Welsh heritage, my grandfather was born in Pembroke, so I know it’s a club with a rich history and passionate supporters,” Wright said. “I had a chat with Ry (Ryan Smith) when I started to consider the move and he spoke so highly of the place and the boys that are there. This is a great opportunity for me to test myself in new waters and I’m looking forward to working under Mark and the rest of the coaches.”
Club Career and Attributes
The 6ft 4in back row made 86 appearances for the Reds, 55 as captain, before a year out due to injury. He recently worked as a backrow specialist coach with the Australian Rugby Union Academy. Wright is a former teammate of Ospreys second-row Ryan Smith and is described as an outstanding lineout forward and dynamic ball carrier.
Ospreys head coach Mark Jones prioritized a blindside flanker who can run the lineout and has secured his target. “Signing Liam is a real statement for us as a club,” Jones said. “He’s an international quality player who will fit seamlessly into our group. We’re extremely excited about what he will bring around the park and to our set piece. His knowledge and experiences will benefit our younger back rowers, as Ryan’s did last season. He’s a real leader with all the credentials that make an Osprey.”
The Ospreys have also signed Wales wing Tom Rogers from the Scarlets and Dan John from Exeter Chiefs, with former Wallabies centre Lalakai Foketi a target.
