Former NSW duo join Major League Rugby

Thu, Jan 3, 2019, 6:00 AM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
Matt Sandell is heading to the USA. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart Walmsley
Matt Sandell is heading to the USA. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart Walmsley

Injury-riddled NSW prop Matt Sandell is looking to reignite his rugby career in the USA, following veteran Paddy Ryan to San Diego.

Sandell was recently unveiled as a recruit for the San Diego Legion in the competiton's second season, kicking off later this month.

The 22-year-old was with the Waratahs for two seasons but two consecutive knee injuries ended his hopes of a Waratahs debut.

He played with the Sydney Rays in the NRC this year but with no immediate Super Rugby future he looked overseas for his next move.

RUGBY.com.au reported in October that Ryan was heading to the USA for a new rugby home after he finished his Super Rugby career this season with the Waratahs.

Paddy Ryan will play his 100th NSW match this weekend. Photo: RUGBY.com.au/Stuart WalmsleySan Diego will also be his destination this season after news that he inked a deal with the Legion.

The 30-year-old joined Japanese Top League side the Munakata Sanix Blues after an NRC campaign with the NSW Country Eagles.

Ryan played eight Super Rugby seasons with the Waratahs and notched his 100th NSW match against the Reds at the SCG earlier this year.

The pair will not be the only Aussies in the competition either - Queensland halfback Scott Gale and former Aussie Sevens player Con Foley have previously announced deals with the New Orleans Gold in the competition.

Former Aussie Sevens player Sam Figg was among the first  tomake the trip over, playing for Glendale in 2018 season and he has since returned to Australia.

Ex-Rebels prop Tim Metcher was part of the championship winning Seattle side last season and will play for them again in 2019.

The US Major League Rugby will be expanding to nine teams in 2019 with the addition of sides from New York and Toronto.

The US Major League Rugby season kicks off on January 27, 2019.

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