Falcons sign John Hardie

Newcastle Falcons have announced the signing of flanker John Hardie.

The 30-year-old joins with immediate effect to help cover for the absence of club captain Will Welch, who will be sidelined for the next couple of months due to the ankle injury suffered in the Gallagher Premiership game at Sale Sharks on October 6.

Hardie has 16 Scotland caps to his name, the most recent coming against Fiji in June of last year.

Born and raised in New Zealand, he played his National Provincial Championship Rugby with Southland and won the Super Rugby title during his time with the Highlanders, for whom he played on more than 50 occasions.

Joining Edinburgh in 2015, Hardie played 22 Pro 14 games and a further seven in Europe before leaving at the end of last season, spending the summer training with French giants Clermont.

Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said: "John is a proven performer at a very high level and it's great to be able to call upon all of his experience and ability.

"It's no secret that injuries and international call-ups have depleted our back-row stocks, and it's great that we are able to welcome John to the club."

Hardie said: "It's fantastic to be here in Newcastle and to have this opportunity.

"I've been watching their recent games and it seems to be a positive environment, so I'm just looking forward to getting started.

"It's a fresh start for me, I'm determined get back on the rugby field and to begin this new chapter."