Welsh rugby fans may have something to look forward to as Wales international Ross Moriarty is rumoured to be making a return home. The 30-year-old forward, who has been playing for French side Brive since 2022, is reportedly set to depart from Brive this summer, opening up opportunities for his return to a Welsh region. Moriarty has been a key player for Brive, impressing with his performances in the Pro D2 and winning several awards during his time with the club. However, after a period of five months on the sidelines due to injury, Moriarty is set to make a comeback and potentially move on to a new chapter in his career.
According to a report from RugbyPass, Brive is looking to let go of some of their top players as part of cost-cutting and restructuring measures, with Moriarty being one of the players on the list. Speculations suggest that Moriarty could be heading back to the UK, with two of his former clubs, the Dragons and Premiership side Gloucester, showing interest in bringing him back to their squads. The Welshman, who was born in St Helens and raised in Swansea, started his career with Gloucester in 2012 before later joining the Dragons in 2018.
While there is a possibility that Moriarty could remain in France, with Racing 92 previously linked to the back row, a return to Wales could be an exciting prospect for Welsh rugby fans. Moriarty’s return could potentially lead to a resurgence in his international career, as he last played for Wales in 2022 under Wayne Pivac. Despite being invited to join the Rugby World Cup squad the following year, Moriarty declined the offer to show dedication to Brive. His cap tally keeps him eligible for international selection, and given the current uncertainties surrounding Warren Gatland’s future with the Wales team, Moriarty may still have a chance to represent his country once again.
Reflecting on his decision to focus on his club commitments in France, Moriarty explained in a recent podcast interview that he wanted to demonstrate his commitment to Brive after just joining the team. He mentioned struggling with injuries during his time with Wales, which may have impacted his opportunities to secure a spot in the national squad. Moriarty’s last match for Wales was against Italy, and since then, he has been focused on his club career in France.
If Moriarty does make a return to a Welsh region, it could boost the team’s performance and add depth to the back row. His experience and prowess on the field could be valuable assets to any team he joins, whether in Wales or elsewhere. Welsh rugby fans will be eager to see where Moriarty’s next destination will be and how his return could impact both the domestic league and the national team. With the rugby scene evolving and new opportunities arising, Moriarty’s potential return to Wales adds an exciting narrative to the upcoming season and could pave the way for a remarkable comeback in his international career.