Ross heads list of senior players to pledge futures to Welsh

Gordon Ross the former Scottish international

Gordon Ross is among a number of experienced London Welsh players to commit to the Exiles for next season.

The 33-year-old former Scotland international fly half has proved an inspired signing in his two seasons at the Dragons, and this season helped the club reach the Championship semi-finals for a second consecutive year.

“I had a couple of opportunities to move elsewhere but I’ve really enjoyed my time at Welsh,” said Ross. “The squad is certainly improving and the club is heading in the right direction, and if the nucleus of the squad can stay together then hopefully we can build on what we’ve achieved so far.”

Ross has made 49 appearances for the Exiles in all competitions since joining the club in 2009, scoring 242 points, but he is just one of several key and experienced players to commit to Welsh.

Former England wing Paul Sampson and second row Matt Corker passed 100 league appearances for the Exiles last season, and the pair will both get the chance to add to their appearance tallies next season having agreed new deals with the club.

Welsh are also delighted to confirm that Players’ Player of the Year Hudson Tonga’uiha, who scored seven tries in 27 appearances in his debut season, has also re-signed. Others to commit to the Exiles include flanker Michael Hills, who scored three tries during the Championship play-offs, and centre Simon Whatling, both of whom return to Old Deer Park for a third season.

Welsh will also once again be able to call on the services of former Wasps second row Martin Purdy, Tonga hooker Vili Ma’asi, Ex-Saracens number eight Ben Russell and prolific wing Liam Gibson.

Further re-signings to be announced in due course.

In addition to Josh Drauniniu, Errie Claassens (both Worcester), Nick Runciman (Gloucester) and Aled Thomas (Scarlets), other players leaving London Welsh this summer include Dominic Shabbo, Waisea Luveniyali and Michael Holford. The club would like to thank all of these players for their efforts and wish them all the best for the future.