By Ross Hancock

THE Cornish Pirates have announced the signing of versatile Australian back Dan O’Brien for the rest of the season.

O’Brien, who can play across the back three and in the centre, returns to the UK after a spell in the Shute Shield with hometown club Randwick and brings Champ Rugby winning experience to Cornwall, having won the league with Ealing Trailfinders in the 2024/25 season.

Joint head coach, Gavin Cattle, was pleased to get his man having had an eye on O’Brien for a while.

He said: “We’ve been talking to Dan for past few months, and we’re pleased to be welcoming him to the squad. He’s proven at Championship level, versatile across the back three and centre, and most importantly a man of good character. He’ll be a real asset to us this season.”

O’Brien, who will join up with the Cornish Pirates squad next Monday and will be available for selection with immediate effect, added: “I’m really excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the club and be back in a full-time programme. There’s a real buzz in Cornwall at the moment and I can’t wait to experience it and contribute to it.”