Balding signs for Falcons
Tue, 01 Jul 2008 09:47
On the day that they returned for pre-season training, Newcastle Falcons have announced the signing of Gloucester back row forward Adam Balding.
The 28-year-old England 'A' international, who captained Gloucester and made 60 appearances during his four seasons at Kingsholm, joins the Falcons on a two-year deal.
A former England Sevens international, Balding also represented his country at Under-16s, 18s and 21s level, before appearing for England 'A'.
Joining Leicester straight from school he made 81 appearances for the Tigers between 1998 and 2003, during which time they won four Premiership titles and two Heineken Cups.
An imposing physical presence at 110kg and 1.88m, Balding's direct running game and ability to break the gain line will be a welcome addition to a Falcons pack already containing a host of talented players.
Director of rugby, Steve Bates, said: "Adam is a player
I have admired for some time, and I am sure his abrasive style of play and ball-carrying ability will prove popular with our supporters.
"He has been involved with successful teams at Leicester and Gloucester, as well as performing strongly for Leeds on loan last season, and will give us added firepower in what is a vital part of the modern game.
"He is a player with years of experience at the top end of the Guinness Premiership, that is not something that is easy to come by, and he joins us today for the start of our pre-season programme.
"We have received very positive reports about Adam from coaches and players who have worked with him, I have been impressed with his attitude when we have met in person and we look forward to seeing the impact he makes up here in what is a very competitive area of the squad."
