Sale Sharks sign prolific wing Tom O’Flaherty from Exeter Chiefs on three-year deal

Sale Sharks have signed winger Tom O’Flaherty from Exeter Chiefs on a long-term contract.

The prolific 27-year-old, who has scored 35 tries in 91 appearances for Exeter Chiefs, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal.

The Rugby Paper broke in January that Sale were interested in O’Flaherty.

O’Flaherty will join Alex Sanderson’s squad at the end of the season.

Sanderson told the club website: “When I sat down with Tom it was clear straight away that he’s a brilliant guy who really wants to play for this club. I have no doubt he’ll bring as much to the club off the field as he will on it.

“For us, making sure we’re bringing in good people is absolutely essential if we’re going to create and build the right environment and culture at the club.

“On the field, Tom’s record speaks for itself. He’s been a huge part of an Exeter side that’s been so successful in recent years and I’m confident he’ll be a fantastic addition.

“Tom is 27 years old and he’s coming here in his prime, with his very best years ahead of him. It’s a massive boost for the club and it’s a big indication of what we’re all about and where we’re trying to get to.” 

Tom O’Flaherty grew up in London and played his rugby for Dulwich College and then Blackheath before moving to Wales to study at Cardiff University.

He joined Cardiff RFC in 2013, playing four times and scoring four tries, before moving to Bridgend, ahead of the 2014-15 season.

He spent time in France, combining a university placement with playing in Top 14 side Montpellier‘s academy, but returned to Wales for the final year of his studies, taking up joint registration with Bridgend and the Ospreys.

He joined Exeter Chiefs in the summer ahead of the 2017/18 Premiership season and has gone on to make 91 appearances, scoring 175 points.