Bristol Bears have handed international back-row forward Santiago Grondona a contract extension at the club despite having not made an appearance for the club - yet.
The 14-cap Puma suffered a knee injury whilst on international duty in the summer having just signed for the Bristol Bears but is progressing well in his rehabilitation and is expected to return in April. Bristol director of rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Santiago sustained an unfortunate injury during the World Cup warm-up fixtures, but has shown his professionalism and diligence throughout his rehab.
READ MORE: Bristol Bears confirm the signing of Kyle Sinckler replacement
“He’s somebody who can operate across the back row and in the second row and, at 25 years old, is an experienced head on young shoulders who has played and performed at the very highest level. Santi has a point to prove and wants to repay the Bears for the faith that the club have shown in getting him back. He’s loving his time in Bristol with his brother Ben and eager to make an impact.
“When we consider the brand of rugby we are striving to play and the balance of youth and energy in next season’s squad, Santi brings further physicality, presence and genuine competition to our back row.”
Grondona said: “It has been a frustrating start to my time at Bristol with the knee injury sustained in the summer, but the club have been hugely supportive, and I must thank all the outstanding medical and athletic performance staff who have helped me on my road to recovery. Despite the injury, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Bears and can’t wait to get stuck in on my return to action.”
Grondona, who previously played in the Premiership for Newcastle Falcons and Exeter Chiefs, will compete for a place in the backrow with his younger brother Benjamin who joined the club in the Autumn, along with new addition Bill Mata with the Fijian international arriving from Edinburgh in the summer.
The length of the contract has not been disclosed.
