Western Force sign Australia born English hooker Nic Dolly

Fri, Apr 19, 2024, 12:10 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
The Western Force have signed hooker Nic Dolly from Leicester. Photo: Getty Images
The Western Force have signed hooker Nic Dolly from Leicester. Photo: Getty Images

The Western Force have continued to build their front-row stocks with the signing of English-capped hooker Nic Dolly.

Dolly, born and bred in Sydney, returns home after spending the past seven years in England, most recently with Leicester.

Catch every game of the Super Rugby Pacific LIVE on Stan Sport. Start your Free Sport Trial Now

The 24-year-old will be eligible to represent Australia in November, having played one game for England against South Africa in 2021. He was selected for a Six Nations clash with France in 2022, although not used off the bench.

“I’m excited to play and just play really well to help the Club on its trajectory,” Dolly said in a statement

“I’ve been over here for seven years, and I always had a plan to go back home to play rugby.

“The Force approached me and made me feel wanted which was a huge attraction. The long-term plan and direction the Club is going is exciting, with Crono locked in for the next few years. It feels like a great move and a great place to live.

“I spoke to Harry Potter, in particular, along with Carts (Sam Carter) and in terms of culture and what the Club is trying to do, it’s all been positive and something I believe I can add to, both on and off field.

“I’ve learned lots in the Premiership and I’m itching to get into it and back playing regular games.”

Dolly comes off the back of the club signing former Wallaby Brendan Panega-Amosa, with the Leicester Tiger also set to join the club in July.

He has played 32 games for Leicester, including helping them to the 2022 Premiership title.

“We’re rapt to complete a deal to bring Nic back home to Australia," Force GM of Rugby Matt Hodgson said.

“Nic’s signing is further reinforcement of our commitment to squad depth in all positions and he brings international quality, for both club and country.

“He proved himself as a high-quality hooker at Leicester and we’re excited to offer him an opportunity to get back to playing regular games to boost his international aspirations.”

Share
Harris & Horton set to achieve unique milestone together
McReight headlines Reds changes for Christchurch trip
'It’s a conundrum': Schmidt's delves into All Blacks experience ahead of day-time Bledisloe
Brumbies depth tested as Wallabies hopefuls ruled out ahead of Drua match